Description
A high-protein tuna pasta salad packed with lean tuna, fiber-rich pasta, and fresh veggies. Perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a light dinner. Easy, nutritious, and delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces whole wheat or high-protein pasta (chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein)
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. - Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. - Combine Ingredients
Add the drained tuna, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives (if using), and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Mix well. - Toss with Pasta
Add the cooled pasta to the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese if desired. - Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Avocado Twist: Add mashed avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped cucumbers or shredded carrots.
- Vegan Option: Replace tuna with mashed chickpeas and use dairy-free yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad , main course
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, american
Keywords: high-protein salad, tuna pasta salad, healthy meal prep, quick lunch, easy pasta recipe