Pasta salad with tuna

Tuna Pasta Salad: An Explosion of Colors and Flavors!

When you think of a light, quick, and tasty dish, tuna pasta salad is on the list of favorites for many. This simple recipe will not only bring you culinary satisfaction but also a dash of joy to your table. Whether you serve it for lunch, as a quick dinner, or even as an appetizer at a party, tuna pasta salad is versatile and always welcome.

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 200 gr. shell pasta (or any preferred pasta)
- 160 gr. canned tuna (in oil or water)
- 50 gr. pitted olives
- 50 gr. finely grated cheese
- 100 gr. canned corn, well drained
- 3 boiled eggs (hard, but you can choose your preferred consistency)
- 2 small tomatoes, diced
- 2 onions (1 yellow and 1 red), finely chopped
- fresh parsley, for decoration
- salt, pepper, olive oil, to taste

Step by step for a perfect salad:

1. Boiling the pasta:
Start by boiling the pasta. Put water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and bring the water to a boil. Add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. You can check its consistency with a fork. Once boiled, drain it, and if you want a warm salad, skip rinsing it. This step will help retain the warmth of the pasta and enhance the flavors.

2. Boiling the eggs:
In another pot, place the eggs to boil. They should boil for 10-15 minutes to achieve a hard consistency. After boiling, let them cool under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

3. Preparing the ingredients:
While the pasta and eggs are boiling, you can take care of the other ingredients. In a large bowl, finely chop the yellow and red onion. Add the tuna (make sure it’s well drained), chopped olives, grated cheese, and corn. Here you can also add other ingredients you like, such as bell peppers or roasted zucchini.

4. Finalizing the salad:
After draining the pasta, add it to the bowl with the other ingredients. Peel the eggs and cut them as you prefer: either into quarters or cubes. Add the eggs and diced tomatoes to the bowl.

5. Seasoning:
Season the salad with salt, pepper, and olive oil, to taste. Mix all the ingredients well so that the flavors combine.

6. Serving:
Finally, garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley. You can serve the salad warm or cold, as you prefer. It’s delicious both on its own and alongside a slice of toasted bread or croutons.

Useful tips:
- Types of pasta: You can use any type of pasta you prefer, from penne to fusilli or spaghetti. Choose whole-grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Tuna: If you prefer a stronger flavor, choose tuna in oil, but make sure to drain the oil before adding it to the salad.
- Vegetarian option: A delicious vegetarian option can include tofu or feta cheese instead of tuna.
- Additions: Experiment with fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, dill, or bell peppers, to add extra freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Pasta provides complex carbohydrates for energy, tuna is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. Eggs also add a good portion of protein and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! There are many gluten-free pasta options available that will fit perfectly into this recipe.

- How can I store the salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. If you added tomatoes, it is recommended to add them on the day of serving to keep the crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:
Tuna pasta salad pairs perfectly with a glass of cold lemonade or a dry white wine. You can also accompany this dish with a simple green salad or a yogurt-based dressing for a complete and balanced meal.

So, don’t wait any longer! Gather the ingredients and prepare your own tuna pasta salad, full of flavor and freshness. Enjoy your meal!