Welcome to your new favorite pasta salad! This Zesty Lemon Herb Macaroni Tuna Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic, perfect for any season. It's bright, tangy, and full of fresh herbs that bring a delightful balance of flavors to your table.
Elbow macaroni is the backbone of this salad, providing that familiar, comforting base. Tuna adds a hearty, protein-packed element that's both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture without being too heavy. Lemon juice and lemon zest bring a zesty brightness that lifts all the other flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley and dill are essential for that garden-fresh taste. Lastly, red onion, celery, and cherry tomatoes add a lovely crunch and a burst of color.
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. It also complements a crunchy baguette or crisp crackers if you're serving it at a picnic or barbecue. Add a side of mixed greens for a complete, balanced plate.
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions, aiming for al dente — we want a bit of bite! Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This will be your creamy, tangy dressing.
Next, add the tuna to the bowl. Use a fork to break it into bite-sized chunks — you don’t want it too shredded. The tuna should be nicely coated in the dressing.
Now, stir in the chopped parsley, dill, finely chopped red onion, diced celery, and halved cherry tomatoes. These ingredients bring freshness and a bit of crunch.
Add the cooled macaroni to the mix. Gently toss everything together until every piece is coated and evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finally, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a more cohesive taste experience.
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