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Homemade Lemon Dill Tuna Pasta Salad (no mayo) photo

Lemon Dill Tuna Pasta Salad (no mayo)

This Lemon Dill Tuna Pasta Salad is SO FRESH! Whole wheat pasta with tuna, crisp veggies, and a zesty lemon dill dressing—perfect for a light, mayo-free meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces whole wheat pasta fusilli or rotini recommended
  • 1 can (5 ounces) tuna drained, packed in water
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.5 cucumber diced
  • 0.25 red onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Juicer or reamer
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and fresh dill.
  3. Open the can of tuna and drain thoroughly. Flake the tuna gently with a fork into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and dill. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until well coated.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free.
  • Substitute canned salmon or cooked shrimp for tuna for a seafood variation.
  • Add chopped bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color.
  • Use fresh parsley or chives if dill is unavailable.
  • Prepare pasta and dressing in advance and toss with fresh veggies and tuna just before serving.