Herbed Tuna Salad Stuffed Pasta Shells
Delightful and refreshing Herbed Tuna Salad Stuffed Pasta Shells make for an excellent appetizer or nutritious snack. Featuring tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of tuna, yogurt, and a medley of fresh herbs, this dish is both light and satisfying. The addition of crisp green peas adds a pop of color and texture, making each bite a delightful experience. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick lunch, these stuffed shells can also be easily customized with chicken or salmon. From Betty Crocker's Best-Loved Recipes, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
6
Servings
60
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
uncooked jumbo pasta shells
18 (uncooked)
frozen green peas
1 (thawed and drained)
plain yogurt
1/4 cup (none)
mayonnaise or salad dressing
1/4 cup (none)
tuna in water
12 ounces (2 (6-ounce) cans, drained)
finely chopped onions
2 tablespoons (chopped)
lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
dried basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon (none)
lemon pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
paprika
1 dash (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the shells dry and set aside.
2
While the pasta shells are cooking, allow the frozen green peas to thaw by rinsing them under cold water in a colander. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.
3
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt and mayonnaise (or salad dressing) until smooth and well blended.
4
Add the drained tuna, finely chopped onions, lemon juice, dried basil, oregano, lemon pepper, salt, and pepper to the yogurt-mayonnaise mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
5
Fold in the thawed green peas carefully to maintain their shape.
6
Using a tablespoon, generously fill each of the cooked and cooled pasta shells with the prepared tuna mixture, ensuring they're well-stuffed.
7
Place the filled pasta shells on a serving platter and lightly sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
8
Chill the stuffed shells in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
1.67g
Fat
5g
Carbs
7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The dish is Herbed Tuna Salad Stuffed Pasta Shells, a refreshing appetizer or nutritious snack.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the primary protein sources for the filling?
The main protein is tuna in water, but it can be customized with chicken or salmon.
How many jumbo pasta shells are required?
You will need 18 uncooked jumbo pasta shells.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of these stuffed shells?
There is 1.67g of fat per serving.
How much protein is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 7g of protein.
What are the carbohydrate details for this recipe?
Each serving contains 5g of carbohydrates.
How should the pasta shells be prepared after boiling?
Drain them, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, and pat them dry.
How do I prepare the frozen green peas?
Rinse them under cold water in a colander to thaw, drain well, and pat dry.
What dairy or creamy ingredients are used in the binder?
The recipe uses a 1/4 cup of plain yogurt and a 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or salad dressing.
Which herbs are included in the tuna salad?
The recipe uses dried basil leaves and dried oregano leaves.
Is there any citrus used in the recipe?
Yes, it uses one teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What kind of pepper is specified in the ingredients?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of lemon pepper in addition to regular pepper to taste.
How are the onions prepared for the filling?
They should be finely chopped; you need 2 tablespoons.
What is used as a garnish for the final dish?
A dash of paprika is sprinkled over the filled shells.
How long should the dish be chilled before serving?
It should be chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Can I use salad dressing instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, the recipe allows for either mayonnaise or salad dressing.
What is the source of this recipe?
This dish is from Betty Crocker's Best-Loved Recipes.
Is this a hot or cold pasta dish?
This is a cold dish, served chilled.
What is the recommended tool for filling the shells?
A tablespoon is recommended for generously stuffing the tuna mixture into the shells.
Are the peas cooked or just thawed?
The peas are just thawed and drained, not cooked, to maintain their shape and texture.
How much tuna is needed?
You need 12 ounces of tuna, which is typically 2 six-ounce cans.
What is the preparation for the tuna before mixing?
The tuna should be drained of water.
Is this recipe suitable for summer gatherings?
Yes, it is described as perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick lunches.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are 12 ingredients in total.
Does this recipe contain fiber or sugar?
The provided nutritional data lists fiber and sugar as null.
What is the texture of the green peas in the dish?
They add a pop of color and a crisp texture to the creamy filling.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is chilling the shells for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.