Pasta Salad With Tuna And Snow Peas
A light, flavorful pasta salad featuring tuna, snow peas, and scallions, dressed with a creamy mustard mixture. Perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch snow peas for 45 seconds in boiled, salted water.
- Drain and refresh under cold running water.
- Cut snow peas diagonally into 1/2-inch pieces and set aside.
- Chop scallions finely.
- Put tuna in a large bowl and flake with a fork.
- Add snow peas, scallions, and cooked pasta; toss to combine.
- Mix mayonnaise, yogurt, dried mustard, and dill in a small bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise mixture to the pasta and toss well.
- The mayonnaise mixture will be barely visible.
- Add black pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for approximately 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for dill. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the amount of nonfat mayonnaise or yogurt. You can also swap fusilli for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options. If you want to enhance the recipe, try adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. This dish can also be turned into a Tuna Stuffed Tomato Salad by serving it in hollowed tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is perfect for summer picnics and potlucks, serving as a light main dish or hearty side. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a complete seafood experience, browse more American recipes that feature tuna, or complement this dish with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve over time, making it a great make-ahead dish. To reheat, consider warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be aware that the texture of the snow peas may change slightly. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Salad With Tuna And Snow Peas contains roughly 52 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?
Yes, you can use canned tuna in oil for a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad. This may enhance the dish, but adjust your mayonnaise and yogurt amounts slightly to balance the oiliness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this pasta salad gluten-free, simply replace the fusilli with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Cook according to package instructions and ensure all other ingredients, including the mayonnaise and yogurt, are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without any concerns.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. Just remember to adjust the dressing according to the additional ingredients to keep the balance of flavors intact.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).