Tuna Pasta Salad

Creamy, easy, and perfect for picnics, this Tuna Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of noodles, peas, red onion, and tuna all tossed in a deliciously creamy sauce. This dish is not only appealing for its flavors but also versatile enough to complement various occasions, from family gatherings to potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Tuna Pasta Salad comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of mayo and seasonings creates a rich and satisfying dressing that elevates the salad.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and fun textures, this salad is a hit with children and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Preparing this salad in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious after a few hours in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Tuna Pasta Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Smaller mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly. A larger pot ensures that the noodles have enough space to move around while boiling.
• Strainer: Helps quickly drain the pasta after cooking without losing any pieces.
• Mixing bowls: Having both large and small bowls allows for efficient mixing of ingredients and sauces separately before combining them.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base

• 16 oz elbow noodles (cooked according to pkg directions)
• 3 4 oz cans tuna in water (drained)
• 4 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
• 1 cup frozen peas (defrosted)
• 1/2 cup red onion (diced fine)

For the Dressing

• 1 1/2 cup mayo
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tsp seasoning salt
• 3-4 Tbs sugar
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Tuna Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook your pasta in a large pot with salted water until al dente, about 15 minutes. Remove and strain the water, then run under cool water to stop cooking and cool down the pasta.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, add your drained tuna, chopped eggs, diced onion, and defrosted peas. Mix well to combine these ingredients.

Step 3: Add Pasta to Mixture

Gently fold in your drained pasta into the mixture from Step 2. Stir until everything is combined evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayo, milk, seasoning salt, sugar, salt & pepper until fully combined.

Step 5: Coat the Salad

Pour the dressing over your pasta mix. Scrape the bowl to ensure you get all of the dressing mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This chilling time allows the pasta to absorb some of that creamy goodness!

Enjoy your delicious Tuna Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re preparing for a picnic, a family gathering, or just a simple dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

As a Standalone Meal

• Enjoy the Tuna Pasta Salad as a refreshing main dish. It’s hearty and satisfying on its own, perfect for lunch or dinner.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad over a bed of fresh lettuce or spinach. The crisp greens add a nice contrast and make the meal feel lighter.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the Tuna Pasta Salad into large lettuce leaves for a fun wrap. This option is great for those looking for a low-carb alternative.

With Crackers or Bread

• Pair the salad with your favorite crackers or slices of bread. This combination makes for a quick snack or lunch option that’s easy to enjoy.

Stuffed in Tomatoes or Peppers

• Hollow out tomatoes or bell peppers and fill them with Tuna Pasta Salad. This presentation is not only colorful but also adds extra flavor.

As Part of a Picnic Platter

• Include Tuna Pasta Salad on a picnic platter along with fruits, cheese, and other salads. It’s an excellent choice that complements various flavors.

How to Perfect Tuna Pasta Salad

To make your Tuna Pasta Salad truly delicious, consider these helpful tips that will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Choose quality tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water for better flavor. It makes a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your salad before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the overall flavor.
• Let it chill: Refrigerate the salad before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with additions: Consider adding diced celery, bell peppers, or pickles for extra crunch and flavor variations.
• Use fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten up the salad and add freshness.
• Don’t skip the sugar: A touch of sugar balances out the acidity from mayo and enhances overall flavor without being sweet.

Best Side Dishes for Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna Pasta Salad pairs well with various side dishes that can complement its creamy texture and savory taste. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a wonderful crunch that pairs nicely with the creamy pasta salad.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the salad.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness to your meal, making it refreshing alongside the tuna pasta.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer earthy flavors that complement the salad beautifully.
5. Potato Chips: Serve crunchy potato chips on the side for an extra textural contrast that everyone loves.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a light side with vibrant flavors that enhance any meal.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob adds sweetness and charred flavor that works wonderfully with tuna pasta.
8. Cucumber Slices: Crisp cucumber slices provide hydration and crunch, making them an ideal side option to lighten up your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuna Pasta Salad is simple, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the cooling step: Not cooling your pasta after cooking can lead to a soggy salad. Always rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Using low-quality tuna: The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the tuna. Opt for high-quality canned tuna for the best taste and texture.
• Overdoing the seasoning: Too much seasoning salt can overpower your salad. Start with less and adjust to taste as you mix in other ingredients.
• Neglecting to chill: Serving immediately without chilling can make your salad less flavorful. Allow it to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
• Forgetting the stir: If you don’t mix well, some bites may be dry while others are overloaded with dressing. Make sure everything is well-coated before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best freshness.

Freezing Tuna Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes.
• If needed, consume within 2 months but expect a change in consistency.

Reheating Tuna Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat while stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tuna Pasta Salad:

Can I use different pasta shapes in Tuna Pasta Salad?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.

How can I customize my Tuna Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and crunch. You can also switch up the dressing by adding mustard or herbs.

What should I serve with Tuna Pasta Salad?

Tuna Pasta Salad pairs well with grilled chicken or a fresh green salad. It’s a versatile side dish suitable for many meals.

Is this Tuna Pasta Salad healthy?

This dish can be made healthier by using low-fat mayo and adding more vegetables. Adjust according to your dietary preferences.

How long does it take to make Tuna Pasta Salad?

The preparation time is around 5 minutes, while cooking takes about 15 minutes, totaling approximately 80 minutes including chilling time.

Final Thoughts

Tuna Pasta Salad is not only creamy and delicious but also very versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a quick meal option at home. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Tuna Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the delightful flavors of Tuna Pasta Salad, a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual family dinners. This easy-to-make salad combines tender elbow noodles with protein-packed tuna, vibrant peas, and crunchy red onion, all enveloped in a rich mayo dressing. Ideal for busy days, this recipe is not just quick to prepare but also customizable to fit your taste. With its kid-friendly appeal and make-ahead convenience, you can serve it as a standalone meal or as a side dish that complements any menu. Dive into this delicious Tuna Pasta Salad and enjoy a refreshing meal any time of the year.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz elbow noodles
• 3 cans tuna in water
• 4 hard-boiled eggs
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup red onion
• 1.5 cups mayo
• 1/4 cup milk
• Seasoning salt, sugar, salt & pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow noodles in salted water until al dente (about 15 minutes). Drain and rinse under cool water.
2. In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced onion, and defrosted peas.
3. Gently fold in the cooled pasta until evenly mixed.
4. In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayo, milk, seasoning salt, sugar, salt & pepper until smooth.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 95mg