Tuna Pasta Salad with Lemon-Dill Dressing

Name: Tuna Pasta Salad with Lemon-Dill Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 250 g pasta (such as rotini or fusilli); 2 cans tuna (drained); 1 cup frozen peas (thawed); 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp dill (fresh, chopped); 1 tsp honey; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

85 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A delightful tuna pasta salad with canned tuna, peas, and a fresh lemon-dill dressing, perfect for meal-prep and potlucks.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Tuna pasta salad is a classic dish that's both delicious and convenient, making it an ideal choice for meal-prepping or serving at potlucks. This version combines canned tuna, sweet peas, and a tangy lemon-dill dressing, offering a refreshing taste that's sure to satisfy. The beauty of this salad lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. Made with pantry staples, it comes together quickly and can be prepared in advance, giving you a go-to dish that's always ready when you are.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 250 g of pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

Pro tip: Rinsing with cold water helps cool the pasta quickly and prevents sticking.

Prepare the dressing

In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp chopped dill, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the seasoning to taste after mixing.

Combine salad ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, 2 cans of drained tuna, 1 cup thawed peas, and 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion. Ensure the tuna reaches an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C by probing the thickest part of the tuna chunks. The tuna should appear opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Pro tip: Ensure peas are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the pasta and tuna mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Pro tip: Add dressing slowly to control the desired creaminess.

Chill the salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavours to meld.

Pro tip: For a more pronounced flavour, chill overnight.

Serve

Before serving, toss the salad again and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.

Pro tip: Garnish with extra dill or lemon zest for presentation.

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Tips & Tricks

Use al dente pasta to maintain texture.
Chill the salad for at least an hour for best flavour infusion.
Add dressing gradually to avoid over-saturating the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best pasta for tuna pasta salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli work best as they hold the dressing well.

How can I keep tuna pasta salad from drying out?

Ensure the pasta is well-coated with dressing, and store it in an airtight container to prevent drying.

Can I make tuna pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to three days.

What can I add to tuna pasta salad for more flavour?

Consider adding capers, olives, or roasted red peppers for extra flavour.

How long does tuna pasta salad last in the fridge?

It will last up to three days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?

Yes, fresh dill is preferred for its vibrant flavour.

Serving Suggestions

This tuna pasta salad is best served chilled, making it an excellent choice for warm days or as a side dish. Pair it with a light white wine or iced tea for a refreshing meal. To make ahead, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days, and the flavours will continue to develop, enhancing the taste. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing and the salad seems dry, simply add a bit more dressing before serving.