Rigatoni With Tuna
A vibrant, easy-to-make pasta salad featuring tuna, cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni al dente, drain, and let stand for at least 1 hour until dry.
- Drain tuna and halve cherry tomatoes, squeezing to remove seeds.
- Mix all ingredients together, including the pasta, tuna, olives, tomatoes, red onion, celery, Italian dressing, and oregano.
- Let stand for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper if necessary before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting canned salmon for tuna or adding capers for an extra briny flavor. If you prefer a fresher taste, use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of canned. Make sure to let the rigatoni cool completely before mixing to avoid a soggy texture. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rigatoni with Tuna chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. Consider serving alongside a glass of chilled white wine for a more sophisticated touch. For a complete seafood experience, browse more Italian recipes that feature seafood.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it for a minute or two, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more Italian dressing to revive it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rigatoni With Tuna contains roughly 247 calories, with 9g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (69% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 887mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish benefits from chilling, so preparing it a few hours or even a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just ensure you store it properly in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make this dish more substantial, consider adding cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. You could also toss in some cooked shrimp to create a hearty seafood medley. This would be a great way to incorporate elements from dishes like Ziti And Shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Rigatoni with Tuna is perfect for meal prep! It's easy to portion out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the pasta's texture.
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).