Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad Recipe from Fiji

Region / culture: Fiji | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with protein, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad has been a popular dish for many years, with variations of the recipe being enjoyed in households around the world. The combination of tuna, pasta, and vegetables creates a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of uncooked rotini
1 12-0.5 oz (14 g) can of tuna, drained and flaked
2 cups of thinly sliced cucumbers
1 tomato, chopped
0.5 cup of sliced celery
0.25 cup of chopped green pepper
0.25 cup of sliced green onions
1 cup of italian dressing
0.25 cup of mayonnaise
1 tbsp of prepared mustard
1 tsp of dill weed
1 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of ground black pepper

How to prepare

Prepare rotini according to the package directions and drain.
In a large bowl, combine rotini, tuna, cucumbers, tomatoes, celery, green pepper, and onions.
In a small bowl, blend Italian dressing, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings.
Add the dressing mixture to the salad and toss to coat. Cover and chill.

Variations

Add diced avocado or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute the Italian dressing with a lemon vinaigrette for a lighter option.
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.

- Drain the tuna well to remove any excess liquid and prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in the salad to suit your preferences or use up any ingredients you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad chilled as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.

- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.

- Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned salmon or chicken as a substitute for tuna.

- Swap out the cucumbers for zucchini or bell peppers.

- Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain its freshness.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing and complementary combination. For a non-alcoholic option, serve the salad with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains fish (tuna)

- Contains wheat (pasta)

Summary

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Packed with protein, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner option that is both nutritious and satisfying.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad. It was many years ago, during a trip to the coast with my late husband. We had stumbled upon a quaint little seaside cafe, where we decided to stop for a light lunch. As we perused the menu, a colorful picture of the dish caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it.

When the plate arrived, I was delighted by the vibrant colors and fresh flavors that greeted me. The combination of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and savory tuna was a revelation to my taste buds. I savored each bite, savoring the unique blend of ingredients that had been brought together in perfect harmony.

I asked the waitress for the recipe, but she only smiled and told me that it was a closely guarded secret of the chef. Undeterred, I set out to recreate the dish at home, determined to capture the magic of that first taste.

I turned to my trusty collection of cookbooks, searching for a base recipe that I could adapt to create my own version of Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad. I experimented with different combinations of vegetables, herbs, and seasonings, until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors that had captivated me on that fateful day at the seaside cafe.

Over the years, I have continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touches and twists to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness and begged me for the secret to my culinary success.

I have also learned to adapt the recipe to suit different dietary preferences and restrictions, substituting ingredients to create a vegan or gluten-free version that is just as tasty as the original. The versatility of the dish is one of its greatest strengths, allowing me to tailor it to the needs and tastes of whoever I am cooking for.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have inspired me along the way. From that chance encounter at the seaside cafe to the countless hours spent experimenting in my own kitchen, each step has brought me closer to the joy of creating and sharing delicious food with others.

I am reminded of the wisdom and generosity of the chefs and home cooks who have shared their knowledge and recipes with me over the years. I have learned that cooking is not just about following a set of instructions, but about infusing each dish with love, creativity, and a little bit of magic.

And so, as I prepare a fresh batch of Tuna Vegetable Pasta Salad for dinner tonight, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of adventure. I look forward to the smiles and satisfied bellies that will greet me at the dinner table, knowing that I have once again created something special to share with those I love.