A vibrant, refreshing salad combining al dente pasta, flaked tuna, bright lemon, and fresh herbs with sweet peas.
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta
01 - 9 oz short pasta such as fusilli, penne, or bowties
02 - Salt for boiling water
→ Salad
03 - 1 cup frozen peas
04 - 2 cans tuna in olive oil, 5 oz each, drained and flaked
05 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
08 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
09 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
→ Optional Additions
12 - 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
13 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
# Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the final 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling water. Drain pasta and peas thoroughly, then rinse under cold water to cool completely.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced red onion, fresh parsley, fresh dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix gently to incorporate flavors.
03 - Add the cooled pasta and peas to the bowl containing the tuna mixture. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss gently until all components are evenly distributed.
04 - Stir in capers and halved cherry tomatoes if desired. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional lemon juice, salt, or pepper according to preference.
05 - Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
