Go Back
When it comes to summer dining, few dishes are as delightful and satisfying as a chilled pasta salad. The Chilled Tuna Delight Pasta Salad is the epitome of this genre, offering a medley of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that instantly elevate any meal. This dish combines tender tri-color rotini pasta with succulent tuna, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing choice for the body.

Cold Tuna Pasta Salad with Dill

Looking for a perfect summer dish? Try the Chilled Tuna Delight Pasta Salad! This vibrant salad features tri-color rotini pasta mixed with succulent tuna, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion, it’s a nutritious choice that can be made in advance. With customizable ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any dietary preference. Enjoy it as a light lunch, side dish, or at your next picnic!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz. tri-color rotini pasta

1 can (5 oz.) tuna packed in olive oil, drained

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

Optional: 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold running water until completely cooled. This process halts the cooking and helps maintain the firmness of the pasta.

    Prepare Fresh Ingredients: While the pasta cools, take the time to chop the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Open the can of tuna and drain it, making sure it's ready for incorporation into the salad.

      Create the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure a creamy and tangy flavor balance.

        Combine All Ingredients: Add the cooled rotini pasta to the mixing bowl with the dressing. Follow by introducing the drained tuna, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. If desired, stir in black olives and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta is well-coated in the dressing.

          Chill and Develop Flavors: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Serve Delightfully: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges on the side for a burst of brightness. This refreshing Chilled Tuna Delight Pasta Salad makes for an excellent light lunch, a delightful dinner side, or a perfect picnic companion!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4-6