tuna pasta salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
tuna pasta salad recipe
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The Best tuna pasta salad recipe

I’ve been making tuna pasta salad for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to please, and it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The best part is that it’s so easy to make, even my kids can help me in the kitchen.

We like to use high-quality ingredients, like fresh parsley and real mayonnaise, to give the salad a rich and creamy flavor. The pasta salad is also a great way to use up leftover pasta, which reduces food waste and saves us money. My family loves this recipe because it’s hearty, yet light and refreshing at the same time.

We like to serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. The combination of tuna, pasta, and vegetables is a classic for a reason – it’s a winner in our book! I’ve made this recipe countless times, but I still get excited every time I see my kids’ faces light up when they take their first bite.

It’s one of those comfort foods that never fails to put a smile on our faces. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for teaching them about measurements and mixing. They can even help with the prep work, like chopping the veggies or stirring the salad.

It’s a great way to spend quality time together as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

4.5 from 1843 votes

A creamy and satisfying pasta salad with tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at summer gatherings.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
2 cans (5 oz each) solid white tuna, drained and flaked
1/2 cup finely diced celery
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
4While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
5Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
6In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, diced celery, diced red onion, thawed peas, and chopped parsley.
7Toss gently with a wooden spoon to distribute the ingredients evenly without breaking up the tuna too much.
8Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
9Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
10Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
11Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and transfer to a serving dish.
12Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
13Serve cold as a main dish or side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. You can also add chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced bell peppers, or sweet pickle relish for extra flavor and texture. This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Classic Tuna Pasta Salad Works

This tuna pasta salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck dish for a family gathering.

My kids love helping me make it, and we all enjoy eating it together as a family.

I like that it’s easy to customize with our favorite ingredients and makes for great leftovers for lunch the next day.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Pasta Salad

Q1: What type of pasta should I use?

I recommend using penne or rotini pasta for this recipe because they hold onto the tuna salad mixture well.

Q2: Can I use canned tuna in water instead of oil?

Yes, you can use canned tuna in water instead of oil, but keep in mind that it may not have as much flavor as oil-packed tuna.

Q3: How long does the salad stay fresh in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Q4: Can I customize this recipe with other ingredients?

Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as diced onions, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or sliced olives.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta and be sure to check the ingredients of the mayonnaise you’re using.

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