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zesty lemon herb tuna pasta salad recipe - Zesty Lemon Herb Tuna Pasta Salad served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Zesty Lemon Herb Tuna Pasta Salad

zesty lemon herb tuna pasta salad recipe made easy at home. A creamy, tangy pasta salad bursting with flaked tuna, crunchy veggies, and fresh herbs—perfect fo
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Tuna
  • 1 lb short pasta (rotini or farfalle) cooked al dente
  • 2 (5 oz) cans solid white tuna in water drained and flaked
Vegetables
  • 1 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 2 stalks celery finely diced
  • 1/2 medium red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and let cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, in a medium bowl, combine the thawed peas, celery, red onion, parsley, and dill. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, and the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over top and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Overnight chilling yields the best taste.
  6. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and serve cold or at cool room temperature.