Welcome! I am so happy you chose to gather around my table. My name is Mia Swinehart and I am a registered dietitian with a passion for simple healthy recipes, women's hormonal health, and overall wellness!
Light & Fresh Lemon Tuna & Arugula Pasta Salad Quick, Healthy, High-Protein, and Gluten-Free Friendly!
If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful dish that ticks all the boxes. It’s fresh, filling, and packed with nourishing ingredients—this Lemon Tuna and Arugula Pasta Salad is going to become your new go-to. Packed with protein from flaky tuna, brightened by a zesty lemon vinaigrette, and peppered with fresh arugula, it’s everything you want in a summer-ready meal that comes together in under 20 minutes.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, need a quick dinner, or want a dish that travels well for picnics or potlucks, this pasta salad delivers. Plus it can be easily made gluten free!
Why You’ll Love It
Quick & Easy: On the table in about 20 minutes.
Healthy & Balanced: High in protein, heart-healthy fats, and leafy greens.
Meal Prep Friendly: Holds up well in the fridge—perfect for grab-and-go lunches.
Customizable: Add capers, red onion, or toss in some olives for a twist.
Variations
Make it gluten-free: Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Chickpea or lentil-based pastas also boost the protein- just be careful not to overcook!
Boost the protein further: Add a hard-boiled egg or an extra can of tuna.
SO excited for you all to try this recipe this Summer. I hope you love it!
Light and fresh lemon tuna and arugula pasta salad!
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz pasta of choice, cooked to al dente
1–2 cans of tuna (I use 2 for extra protein)
2 large handfuls of arugula
2–3 tbsp freshly grated pecorino
For the dressing
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Cook your pasta to al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to quickly cool the pasta. Allow to drain for 5-10 minutes while you prep the remaining ingredients.
Whisk together all dressing ingredients. Set aside.
In a large bowl, add the tuna, arugula, and pasta. Toss everything with the dressing. Add pecorino and toss again. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon if desired.
Did you make this recipe? Be sure to tag @gatherednutrition on INstagram so I can see what you made! Leaving a rating and review on the site is a huge help too!
