First Step: COOK THE PASTA

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you use.
2. Drain and Cool: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help the pasta stay firm and prevent it from becoming mushy.
3. Set Aside: Once the pasta has cooled, set it aside to drain completely.

Second Step: PREPARE THE VEGETABLES AND TUNA

1. Chop the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Drain the Tuna: Open the tuna cans, drain the liquid, and flake the tuna with a fork. You can also use your hands to break it up into smaller pieces if you prefer.
3. Combine: Add the tuna to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.

Third Step: MAKE THE DRESSING

1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
2. Thin the Dressing (Optional): If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to thin it out. This will make the dressing more spreadable without being too heavy.
3. Adjust Flavor: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a little more lemon juice for acidity or mustard for tang, depending on your preference.

Fourth Step: ASSEMBLE THE SALAD

1. Combine Pasta and Dressing: Once the pasta has cooled completely, add it to the bowl with the vegetables and tuna. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
2. Toss to Coat: Gently toss everything together until the pasta, tuna, and vegetables are well coated with the dressing. Make sure the pasta is evenly covered with the creamy sauce.
3. Chill the Salad: For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also gives the pasta a chance to absorb the dressing, enhancing the taste.

Final Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the salad for a burst of fresh flavor and color. If you like, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for extra richness and aroma.
2. Serve: Serve the Tuna Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, a side of fresh greens, or as a standalone meal.