Zesty Moroccan Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing Zesty Moroccan Tuna Pasta Salad combines the robust flavors of North Africa with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for a light lunch or as a snack, this dish features tri-colored rotini pasta coated in a creamy, spiced dressing. Packed with protein from the tuna and vibrant vegetables from the corn and olives, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for meal prep or potlucks, this salad can be served chilled, making it a go-to for warm days or picnics. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and customizes easily with your favorite add-ins.
3
Servings
167
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mayonnaise
2 (tablespoons)
Olive oil
1 (tablespoon)
Cumin
1/2-1 (teaspoon)
Salt
1/4-1/2 (teaspoon)
Onion powder
1/4 (teaspoon)
Tri-colored rotini pasta
8 (ounces, cooked)
Tuna in olive oil
3 (ounce can, flaked)
Corn
8 (ounce can, drained)
Sliced black olives
2-3 (tablespoons)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the tri-colored rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. If using frozen corn, add it to the boiling pasta for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and allow to cool.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, cumin, salt, and onion powder until smooth and well-combined.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta (and corn, if used), flaked tuna, and sliced black olives. Gently toss to combine.
4
Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
5
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
6.7
Fat
20
Carbs
10
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Moroccan Tuna Pasta Salad?
It is a refreshing dish that combines tri-colored rotini pasta with tuna, corn, and olives, all tossed in a Moroccan-inspired creamy cumin dressing.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 3 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the dressing?
The dressing consists of mayonnaise, olive oil, cumin, salt, and onion powder.
How many calories are in a single serving?
There are approximately 167 calories per serving.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of cooked tri-colored rotini pasta.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the tuna with a plant-based alternative or extra legumes like chickpeas.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
It is recommended to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this pasta salad served hot or cold?
This dish is designed to be served cold, making it ideal for picnics or warm days.
What type of tuna should I use?
The recipe suggests using a 3-ounce can of tuna in olive oil, flaked.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving contains 10 grams of protein.
What vegetables are included in the salad?
The salad includes an 8-ounce can of corn and 2-3 tablespoons of sliced black olives.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, if using frozen corn, add it to the boiling pasta for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
How much fat is in a serving?
There are 6.7 grams of fat per serving.
What gives the salad its Moroccan flavor?
The use of cumin combined with olive oil and onion powder provides the signature Moroccan-inspired flavor profile.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as it holds up well in the refrigerator and is served cold.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
While tri-colored rotini is suggested for color and texture, you can substitute other shapes like fusilli or penne.
What is the first step in preparing the salad?
The first step is cooking the pasta until al dente and allowing it to cool.
How do I prepare the dressing?
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, cumin, salt, and onion powder until smooth.
Are there any sugars in this recipe?
The provided nutritional data shows no sugar content for this recipe.
Is there fiber in this recipe?
The recipe details do not specify a fiber count, though the corn and olives provide some dietary fiber.
What is the total count of ingredients?
There are 9 ingredients in total for this recipe.
Can I use tuna in water instead of oil?
Yes, though tuna in olive oil is recommended for its richer flavor and texture.
Is this recipe easy to customize?
Yes, it is very simple to prepare and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins.
What is the serving size?
The serving size is not specifically defined, but the recipe makes 3 equal servings.
What tags are associated with this dish?
Tags include pasta salad, tuna salad, Moroccan flavors, lunch, snacks, and meal prep.
Is this a good recipe for a potluck?
Yes, it is ideal for potlucks because it can be made in advance and served chilled.
How much cumin should I add?
The recipe recommends between 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cumin depending on your taste preference.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise for the dressing.
Can I add fresh herbs?
While not in the base recipe, adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro would complement the Moroccan spices nicely.