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Make-Ahead Tuna Pasta Salad

Make-Ahead Tuna Pasta Salad: A Fresh Picnic Delight

Make-Ahead Tuna Pasta Salad is a refreshing, health-conscious dish perfect for picnics and meal prep, featuring zesty balsamic vinaigrette and roasted tomatoes.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 3 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard works in a pinch.
  • 1 medium Lemon Juice Use lime juice as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar Honey or agave syrup can replace it.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt makes a suitable substitute.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Consider using white pepper for a milder flavor.
Salad
  • 8 oz Short Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta if required.
  • 1 jar Jarred or Canned Tuna 6.7 oz; any type of canned fish (like salmon) can be substituted.
  • 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Use any sweet tomato variety or omit for simplicity.
  • 2 cups Baby Arugula Spinach or mixed greens can be used if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Finely chopped; fresh parsley is a delightful alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Thinly sliced; green onions can be substituted for convenience.
  • to taste Flaky Sea Salt For finishing touches just before serving.

Equipment

  • Measuring Cup
  • rimmed baking sheet
  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a measuring cup, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until emulsified and set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle the cherry or grape tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for about 15 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the dressing, roasted tomatoes, arugula, drained tuna, dill, and chives. Toss gently until well combined.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Customize ingredients as desired and enjoy the flavors that meld beautifully after chilling.

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