Healthy Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad | Seriously GOOD 20-Minute Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal? This creamy tuna pasta salad is packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a light, tangy dressing that makes it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Best of all, it takes just 20 minutes to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy days!

This recipe combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy yet light dressing for a perfectly balanced dish. Whether you’re craving something refreshing in the summer or a comforting yet healthy meal year-round, this pasta salad is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
✔ Healthy & Balanced: High in protein and packed with fresh veggies.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for days, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches.
✔ Creamy Without the Guilt: Uses a light, homemade dressing instead of heavy mayonnaise.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad:

• 2 cups whole wheat or chickpea pasta (for extra protein)
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup celery, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (or plain unsweetened yogurt)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, celery, and parsley.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with feta cheese if using.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Tips & Variations

✔ Make it Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt or avocado mash.
✔ Boost Protein: Add hard-boiled eggs or extra tuna.
✔ Add More Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or chopped almonds.
✔ Switch Up the Veggies: Try adding spinach, carrots, or zucchini for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is a game-changer when you need something quick, nutritious, and satisfying. Whether for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner, this recipe is a winner.

Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to share this with a friend who loves easy, healthy meals.