Lemon Bay Tuna Mac Salad

In 1896 2,000 acres of land was purchased in Englewood (SW FL).  This land, which is bordering the Gulf Bay, was to be a thriving Florida, "Grove Town".  The Nichols brothers aimed to plant lemon trees and grown lemons, which were in high demand.  Not only were lemons very costly, but they were also known for treating scurvy and influenza, both serious health threats, at the time.  

Everyone agreed it was a good plan except Mother Nature.  Severe back-to-back freezes killed all the immature lemon trees that had been planted.  The lowest temperature recorded was 14 degrees.

Game plan change:  Lemon Bay, Englewood was soon promoted as a resort area featuring excellent hunting, golfing, fishing, and water activities, which became one of the first Winter resort spots in Florida. 

One of the most popular fish caught in SW Florida is the Mackerel, which is in the tuna family.  Today, many residents and vacationers enjoy ALL that Englewood has to offer, including abundant fishing and tropical citrus trees.

No doubt, this recipe represents the area in which I live in.  I used only the best dressings to compliment this salad also.  Guess what "one" ingredient is used in their products?  If you guessed lemons, you are correct. #Hellmanns #tasteofamericabbq #ContestEntry

Lemon Bay Tuna  Mac Salad

Ingredients:

8 ozs elbow pasta, cooked and drained

1/3 cup red onion, chopped

1 cup Hellmann's Mayonnaise 

1/4 cup Hellmann's Classic Burger Sauce

2 TBS half and half

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1 TBS cider vinegar

2 TBS sugar

1 tsp tarragon, chopped

1 tsp parsley, chopped

1/8 tsp salt

1/8 tsp coarse pepper

2 can Solid White Tuna, drained

Directions:

1.  Cook pasta, drain.

2.  In a medium-size mixing bowl.  Add all other ingredients (except tuna).  Mix well.

3.  Add tuna to dressing.  Mix well.  Season to your liking.  Fold in pasta.  Chill for 4 hrs or overnight.

Serves 6-8 people