Tuna and Herby Fusilli Salad is my go-to recipe for busy weekdays. I learned this recipe during my first apartment days when I needed something quick but tasty. The combination of pasta and tuna with fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The homemade dressing brings everything together with its perfect blend of tangy and sweet notes.
About the Recipe
This pasta salad is perfect for anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors. The roasted capsicum adds a sweet smokiness, while the fresh tomatoes and red onion bring crunch and zing. The tuna makes it filling enough for a main meal, and the herby dressing ties everything together beautifully. It’s also great for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how this recipe comes together with simple ingredients from your pantry. The pasta is filling but not heavy, and the dressing gives it a fresh, bright taste. It’s really flexible too – you can add or swap vegetables based on what you have. The best part? No fancy cooking skills needed. Just some basic chopping and boiling pasta. It’s also budget-friendly and can feed a family or provide several meals for one person.
Tuna and Herby Fusilli Salad
Cooking Tips
– Don’t overcook the pasta – keep it al dente (firm to bite)
– Let the pasta cool before mixing with other ingredients to prevent wilting
– Toast the capsicum well – those black spots add amazing flavor
– Mix the dressing ingredients in a jar and shake well
– Season the pasta water well with salt for better flavor
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total prep time: 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. Great for packed lunches. Add a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil just before serving to refresh.
Similar Recipes
- Mediterranean Orzo Salad
- Greek Pasta Salad with Feta
- Chicken and Pesto Pasta Salad
- Cold Noodle Salad with Tuna
Nutrient Benefits
This salad packs protein from tuna, complex carbs from pasta, and vitamins from fresh vegetables. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while basil offers antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you full and energized. The mix of ingredients provides a good range of nutrients needed for a healthy diet.
Tuna and Herby Fusilli Salad
Ingredients
- 200 gms Dried Fusilli Pasta
- 1 Red Capsicum (seeded and quartered)
- 1 Red Onion (sliced)
- 4 Tomatoes (sliced)
- 200 gmss Canned Tuna in Brine (drained and flaked)
For the Dressing:
- 6 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 tbsp White Wine Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 tbsp Mustard
- 1 tsp Honey
- 4 tbsp Fresh Basil (chopped plus extra sprigs for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta, return to a boil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until tender but still firm to the bite.
- Put the capsicum quarters under a preheated hot broiler and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the skins begin to blacken.
- Transfer to a plastic bag, seal and set aside.
- Remove the pasta from the heat, drain and set aside to cool.
- Remove the capsicum from the bag, and peel of the skins.
- Slice it into strips.
- To make the dressing, put all the dressing ingredients in a large bowl and stir together well.
- Add the pasta, capsicum strips, onion, tomatoes and tuna.
- Toss together gently.
- Divide between serving bowls.
- Garnish with basil sprigs and Serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Make it up to a day ahead. The flavors actually get better as they mingle. Just store it in the fridge and add fresh basil before serving.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Any short pasta works great – try penne, bow ties, or rotini. Just cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Skip the tuna and add chickpeas or white beans instead. You’ll still get protein, and it’s just as tasty.
