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The dressing for your Cool & Zesty Tuna Pasta Salad is not just an afterthought; it is the heart of the dish, elevating the flavors and bringing all the ingredients together in perfect harmony. The key ingredients for the dressing typically include extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Cold Tuna Pasta Salad

Discover the joy of a Cool & Zesty Tuna Pasta Salad, a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion! Combining tender fusilli pasta, protein-rich tuna, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is versatile enough for summer barbecues or meal prepping. With endless customizations, it caters to various tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fusilli pasta

1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained (preferably in olive oil for extra flavor)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives. If you're using feta cheese, crumble it as well.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

        Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you’re adding feta, wait until just before serving to sprinkle it on to keep it fresh.

            Serve: Give the salad a final toss, check for seasoning, and adjust if necessary. Serve cold and enjoy your refreshing Cold Tuna Pasta Salad!

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6