Print

High Protein Tuna Pasta Salad | Easy Healthy Lunch Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Forget mayo! This high-protein pasta salad uses nonfat Greek yogurt for a creamy, dill-flavored dressing. Quick cook-and-cool method ensures perfect al dente texture.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta (such as rotini or elbows)
  • 2 (5 oz) cans of tuna, packed in water, thoroughly drained
  • 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill weed (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta immediately and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles completely. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Step 2: While the pasta cools, prepare the rest of the ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dried dill weed, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until the dressing is smooth.
  3. Step 3: Add the thoroughly drained tuna, chopped celery, diced red onion, and thawed frozen peas to the bowl with the cooled pasta.
  4. Step 4: Pour the Greek yogurt dressing over the tuna and pasta mixture. Gently fold all the ingredients together using a spatula until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the high-protein dressing.
  5. Step 5: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed (add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for brightness). Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, noting that the pasta may absorb the dressing and require a splash of water or extra lemon juice before serving.
  • Do not attempt to reheat this chilled salad, as the high-protein Greek yogurt dressing will separate and the texture will be ruined.
  • Serve this satisfying salad spooned into crisp lettuce cups, such as romaine or butter lettuce, for added crunch and greens.
  • To soften the sharpness of the red onion, soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes before draining and incorporating them into the salad mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://coookitfast.com/high-protein-tuna-pasta-salad-easy-healthy-lunch-recipe/