Tuna Pasta Salad

A quick and satisfying tuna pasta salad recipe that combines creamy, tangy flavors with crunchy vegetables. Perfect for warm days and meal prep!

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Course Lunch, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

8 oz Rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni Choose pasta that holds the dressing well.

Main Ingredients

2 cans Tuna, drained Recommended tuna in water.
1/2 cup Mayonnaise For creaminess; can mix with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
1 tbsp Mustard Adds a flavor boost.
1 tbsp Lemon juice or pickle juice For brightness.

Vegetable Ingredients

1 cup Chopped celery For crunch.
1/4 cup Chopped red onion Optional; use more if you enjoy onion flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

1/2 cup Peas Can add more veggies.
1/2 cup Sweet corn Adds sweetness.
1/2 cup Chopped dill pickles Enhances flavor.
1/2 cup Shredded cheese Optional for creaminess.

Seasoning

1 tsp Salt To taste.
1 tsp Pepper To taste.
1/4 tsp Garlic powder For flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

Cook pasta until just tender, then drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon or pickle juice to your taste.
Add tuna, celery, onion, and any optional extras you like. Stir to combine.
Toss in the cooled pasta and mix until everything is well coated.
Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time and lasts in the fridge for 3-4 days. Save a bit of the dressing to mix in before serving if it thickens. Chill time enhances the flavors.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Salad Recipe, Meal Prep, Quick Meals, Tuna Pasta Salad