Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad from Sweet Tomatoes features tender pasta tossed with flaked tuna, fresh tarragon, crisp celery, and a light, creamy dressing, offering a refreshing and herb-infused flavor with a colorful, inviting appearance.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup peas
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Using fresh tarragon is key to capturing the bright, herbaceous flavor characteristic of the Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad from Sweet Tomatoes. Opt for small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni for the best texture that holds the dressing well. Make sure to drain the canned tuna thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Incorporate crisp celery and finely diced red onion to add a satisfying crunch and contrast. Your Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad from Sweet Tomatoes copycat menu will shine with these ingredient choices, delivering an authentic, refreshing taste.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain pasta using a colander and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine drained pasta, tuna, celery, red onion, and optional peas.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, tarragon, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over pasta mixture.
- Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper, if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and blend flavors.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Substitution
Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad from Sweet Tomatoes copycat menu blends elbow macaroni with flaked canned tuna, fresh tarragon, celery, and a creamy mayo-based dressing for a bright, herbaceous taste. You can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like rotini or shells if preferred. Light sour cream can be swapped for Greek yogurt to add a tangy, protein-rich twist while maintaining creaminess. Fresh tarragon can be replaced with dill or fresh basil if unavailable, offering a different but complementary herbal note. To enhance texture and color, consider adding peas, chopped parsley, or even diced bell peppers according to your kitchen staples.
Tips
Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta thoroughly with cold water to prevent it from continuing to cook and becoming mushy. When draining the tuna, press out excess oil or water to avoid watering down your salad's dressing. Whisk the dressing ingredients well to ensure a smooth, creamy texture that evenly coats your pasta mixture. Your salad will taste best after chilling for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld properly.
Nutritions
Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad provides a balanced combination of protein from tuna and carbohydrates from elbow macaroni, supporting energy and muscle repair. The inclusion of fresh celery and optional peas adds dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting heart health. A creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and sour cream contributes healthy fats, while fresh tarragon and parsley supply antioxidants and vitamins. You benefit from a nutrient-dense dish that combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Storage
Store your Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods in the refrigerator. Keep the salad chilled at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. Avoid freezing as the creamy dressing may separate and alter the texture upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences or use whole grain pasta for added fiber. Swap mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt to create a lighter, tangier dressing without losing creaminess. For added crunch and nutrition, try adding diced cucumber or bell peppers instead of celery. Incorporate a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of lemon juice for a slightly different acidity profile enhancing the flavors of tuna and tarragon.
Allergies
Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad contains common allergens such as fish (tuna) and dairy (mayonnaise and sour cream), which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Celery and mustard are also potential allergens that could affect some people. You should carefully review all ingredients if you have known food allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Tuna Tarragon Pasta Salad from Sweet Tomatoes restaurant is favored for its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and the unique herbal aroma of fresh tarragon that complements the tender tuna and al dente pasta. The combination of high-quality ingredients offers a nutritious, protein-rich meal that appeals to health-conscious diners. Your attempt at recreating this recipe allows you to customize the seasoning and freshness, ensuring a personal touch and potential improvement in overall taste. Making the copycat version at home also provides a cost-effective way to enjoy a favorite dish without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value.