
Cold Pasta Salad with Tuna and Egg is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that typically combines cooked pasta, canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and crisp vegetables like celery or onions, all tossed in a light vinaigrette or mayonnaise-based dressing. This versatile salad has roots in Mediterranean and American home cooking, where it's celebrated as a convenient, no-cook meal perfect for picnics, potlucks, and quick lunches.
This salad is a balanced meal with a moderate amount of carbs from the pasta, healthy fats from the tuna and dressing, and a substantial protein boost from both the tuna and eggs, making it particularly satisfying. A single serving typically provides around 400-500 calories, along with key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and selenium.
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Selenium | 45 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Vitamin D | 2 mcg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Choline | 120 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, this dish is a testament to the global pantry, merging Italian pasta with the widespread use of canned tuna, a staple in many households for its long shelf life and convenience. Nutritionally, it's unique for combining complete proteins from both animal sources (tuna and egg) with the energy-rich carbs of pasta, creating a well-rounded and satiating meal without requiring any cooking beyond boiling the pasta and eggs.