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This post is all about lunch meal prep.
This Dill Pickle Tuna Pasta Salad is a protein-packed meal prep option that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta and dill pickles for a refreshing and satisfying dish. With over 30g of protein per serving it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
The recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in advance making it a convenient choice for busy days. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or additional seasonings to suit your taste. This is a quick and easy lunch meal prep!
Colorful Ingredients Come Together
The Dill Pickle Tuna Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of vibrant colors and textures.
With al dente pasta serving as the base, the addition of canned tuna, diced dill pickles, and finely chopped red onions creates a visually appealing dish.
Each ingredient contributes not only to the aesthetic but also to the overall flavor profile, making every bite a burst of freshness.
Preparation Made Simple
This salad is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by cooking the pasta in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente, then rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process.
While the pasta cools, whip up a creamy dressing that combines mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and pickle juice, ensuring a rich flavor that ties the salad together.
Mixing It All Together
Once the pasta is cool, combine it with the drained tuna, diced pickles, and red onions in a large bowl.
Gently stir the mixture with the dressing until everything is well coated.
This step is crucial for ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Meal Prep Convenience
This dish shines in its versatility, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
After mixing, simply divide the salad into meal prep containers, which makes it easy to grab and go during busy weekdays.
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, maintaining its freshness and flavor.
Garnishing for Appeal
To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing each serving with fresh dill.
This not only adds a pop of green but also enhances the dill flavor that complements the pickles.
The rustic wooden table setting adds warmth to the overall presentation, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a simple family meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutrition.
With over 30 grams of protein per serving, it serves as a satisfying meal option that can fuel your day.
The combination of pasta and tuna provides a balanced source of carbohydrates and protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Protein-Rich Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
This pasta salad features al dente pasta mixed with canned tuna, diced dill pickles, and a creamy dressing, providing a delicious and nutritious meal. The recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (elbow or rotini)
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup dill pickles, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained tuna, diced pickles, red onion, and cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or pickle juice to your preference.
- Serve or Store: Divide the salad into meal prep containers. Garnish with fresh dill if desired. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
