Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?

Absolutely! Canned chicken works great - just make sure to drain it well. I've even used leftover grilled chicken when I had it. The salad will be just as delicious with whatever protein you prefer.

How long does this pasta salad keep in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually get better after a day! Just give it a good stir before serving to wake up all those tasty ingredients.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

Yes! Greek yogurt is my go-to swap - it gives the same creaminess with less fat. For a dairy-free option, mashed avocado or even hummus works surprisingly well. The dressing will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Of course! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. I've had great results with chickpea or brown rice pasta. The texture holds up perfectly with the other ingredients.

What if I don't like cilantro?

No problem at all! Fresh parsley makes a great substitute, or you can simply leave it out. The salad will still have plenty of flavor from the other ingredients and that zesty dressing.

Zesty Mexican Tuna Pasta Salad Ready in 30 Minutes

Name: Zesty Mexican Tuna Pasta Salad Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (rotini or penne); 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup corn kernels; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Zesty Mexican Tuna Pasta Salad Ready in 30 Minutes

Print Recipe

A refreshing and flavorful Mexican tuna pasta salad perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal. This cold pasta salad combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying dish.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup corn kernels
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, corn, and cilantro to the bowl.
Toss gently until all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Add avocado for extra creaminess.
Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili powder.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Mexican tuna pasta salad, cold Mexican pasta salad

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/mexican-tuna-pasta-salad-recipe/