If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to whip up, then my Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is just what you need! This salad is a go-to for potlucks, quick lunches, or even a simple dinner alongside some crusty bread. I remember making it for the first time during a family gathering, and it vanished faster than I could say “seconds, please!” The combination of tender pasta, creamy dressing, and savory tuna is so satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this salad a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni – this tiny pasta shape holds onto all the creamy goodness!
• 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained – make sure to drain it well for that perfect texture.
• 1 cup mayonnaise – the secret to that rich, creamy dressing.
• 1 cup celery, diced – adds a delightful crunch and fresh flavor.
• 1/2 cup onion, diced – for a bit of bite, but feel free to adjust to your taste!
• 1 cup peas, frozen – they’ll thaw perfectly in the salad and bring a pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – just a splash for brightness to balance the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing all those flavors together!

How to Prepare Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

Making my Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is super simple, and I promise it’ll be worth every bite! Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. You want it to be nice and cool!
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, diced onion, and frozen peas. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Yum!
4. Now, add the cooled macaroni to your mixing bowl. This is where all the magic happens—gently fold it in with the other ingredients until everything is coated in that creamy goodness.
5. Next, drizzle in the lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give it another gentle stir to incorporate those flavors.
6. Lastly, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect in each serving of my Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Cholesterol: 30mg

This makes for a satisfying and low-fat meal option, perfect for a light lunch or dinner!

Tips for Success

To make your Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad even more delicious, here are some of my favorite tips! First, consider using whole wheat elbow macaroni for a healthier twist—it’s just as tasty! If you want to jazz up the flavor, try adding chopped pickles or even a dash of Dijon mustard to the mix. For a fresh herb kick, toss in some chopped dill or parsley. And don’t be afraid to play with the veggies; bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even corn work wonderfully! Lastly, remember to chill the salad long enough to let those flavors really shine—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Variations of Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

One of the best things about my Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is how easy it is to customize! If you’re in the mood for something different, try adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or even basil for a burst of flavor. You can also mix in chopped bell peppers for a crunchy sweetness or swap the frozen peas for sweet corn. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some diced pickles or capers for a tangy twist! And for a Mediterranean flair, consider adding olives and cherry tomatoes. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds guide you!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is a breeze! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you don’t need to reheat—this salad is best served cold. Just give it a little stir to rehydrate the dressing, and you’re good to go! If you find it’s thickened a bit, feel free to add a splash of mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back that creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies and flavors.
• Great for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge for days.
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light lunch.
• Rich and creamy, satisfying every craving without feeling heavy.
• Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad, the options for pairing are endless! I love serving it alongside some crusty bread or warm garlic toast for a satisfying meal. If you want to keep things light, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creaminess perfectly. You could also whip up some crispy potato chips or pita chips for a delightful crunch on the side. For an extra dash of freshness, consider adding sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your salad experience and make it even more delicious!

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Creamy Chicken Pasta.

For nutritional information on tuna, you can visit Healthline.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A tasty and creamy tuna pasta salad that’s easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup peas, frozen
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water.
3. In a large bowl, mix the tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and peas.
4. Add the cooled macaroni to the mixture.
5. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• Add chopped pickles for extra flavor.
• This salad can be made a day ahead.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing and boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad, Tuna Salad, Pasta Salad