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As the summer sun blazes overhead, the allure of outdoor gatherings, beach days, and casual picnics often inspires a shift in our cooking habits. When the temperature rises, turning on the stove can feel like an unwelcome chore. This is where the beauty of chilled dishes comes into play. They offer a refreshing reprieve from the heat while still delivering delicious flavors and satisfying meals. Among the myriad of options, the Chilled Summer Tuna Pasta Delight stands out as a perfect solution for those warm days when you crave something light yet fulfilling.

Cold Tuna Pasta Salad

Beat the heat this summer with a Chilled Summer Tuna Pasta Delight! This refreshing dish brings together rotini pasta, protein-rich tuna, and vibrant fresh vegetables for a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or quick weeknight dinners, it features a creamy dressing with a zesty kick. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this recipe is the ultimate summer comfort food that keeps you cool and nourished. Enjoy the essence of summer in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta variety)

1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked

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 frozen peas, thawed

1/4 cup black olives, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, fill with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Carefully drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water until completely cooled. Set aside to cool further.

    Prepare the Vegetables: As the pasta cools, take this opportunity to prepare your colorful vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper into small pieces, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta along with the flaked tuna, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, thawed peas, sliced black olives, and freshly chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.

        Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.

          Mix it All Together: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the salad until every ingredient is well-coated, ensuring a delicious flavor in every bite.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify. When ready to serve, dish out the salad in bowls, garnishing with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

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