This creamy tuna pasta salad is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal at home. It combines tender pasta, flaked tuna, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Whether served as a side or a main course, this salad is a great way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile – You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, pasta shapes, or add-ins.
- Great for Meal Prep – This salad stores well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
- Balanced and Satisfying – It provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats for a filling meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and picnics, as it’s a dish that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta (such as rotini, penne, or macaroni)
- Canned tuna, drained
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice
- Celery, finely chopped
- Red onion, diced
- Sweet pickles or relish
- Frozen peas, thawed
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
- Prepare the Dressing – In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Add the Ingredients – Stir in the drained tuna, celery, red onion, sweet pickles (or relish), and peas. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Everything – Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently fold it into the mixture until evenly coated.
- Season and Garnish – Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
- Chill and Serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Healthier Version – Swap mayonnaise for an all-Greek yogurt base to reduce fat while keeping it creamy.
- Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Crunchy Addition – Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even nuts for added texture.
- Avocado Upgrade – Mix in mashed avocado for a creamy, nutritious alternative to mayo.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and dressing may change when thawed.
- Reheating: This dish is best served cold, but if desired, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process immediately.
Can I make this tuna pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld.
What is the best type of tuna to use?
Chunk light tuna in water works best, but you can also use albacore tuna for a firmer texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, rotini, penne, macaroni, or even bowtie pasta work well for this recipe.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free mayo alternative and skip the Greek yogurt or sour cream.
What can I serve with tuna pasta salad?
It pairs well with fresh greens, crackers, or toasted bread for a complete meal.
Can I add eggs to this salad?
Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great addition for extra protein.
How do I keep the salad from drying out?
If it looks dry after refrigeration, mix in a little extra mayo or yogurt before serving.
Can I substitute mayonnaise with something else?
Yes, you can use mashed avocado, hummus, or a light vinaigrette for a different twist.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
Creamy tuna pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, fresh ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s a great meal prep option or side dish for gatherings. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying salad every time.
Print
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of tender pasta, flaky tuna, sweet peas, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a quick and easy dish, ideal for a light lunch, meal prep, or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, tuna, peas, and red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minute
- Category: : Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American