Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 8 ounces grain pasta
• 6 ounces tuna
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup cucumber
• 0.25 cup red onion
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.25 cup basil
• 0.25 cup black olives
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Cook whole grain pasta in boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
2. 2Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. 3Drain and flake the canned tuna, setting it aside in a large mixing bowl.
4. 4Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
5. 5Add the chopped vegetables to the bowl with tuna.
6. 6Chop fresh basil and slice black olives, then add them to the mixing bowl.
7. 7In a separate small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
8. 8Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to combine.
9. 9Gently fold in the cooled, cooked pasta until everything is evenly mixed.
10. 10Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
11. 11Garnish with additional fresh basil and capers before serving.
12. 12Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.