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Tuna Pasta Salad

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad for a Perfect Summer Meal

This Tuna Pasta Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces small shells or elbow macaroni Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Tuna
  • 2 cans (5-ounce) tuna (oil or water-packed, drained and flaked) Can be swapped for canned chicken or chickpeas.
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 ¼ cup mayonnaise Can replace half with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Provides a tangy kick.
  • 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar Adds acidity.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried dill Enhances flavor.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder Infuses depth.
  • ¾ teaspoon onion powder Delivers savory taste.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Add-Ins
  • 1 ½ cups frozen peas (thawed) Adds sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup finely chopped celery (about 3 ribs) Substitute with cucumbers for a different crunch.
  • ½ cup finely chopped red onion Optional, based on taste.
  • ½ cup grated carrots Optional, adds sweetness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and distilled white vinegar. Whisk until smooth. Add dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, blending well.
  3. Gently fold in the cooled pasta, tuna, peas, celery, red onion, and grated carrots into the dressing. Mix until all ingredients are well-coated.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let it chill for a few hours or overnight.
  5. Before serving, stir the salad gently. If it seems dry, mix in a bit more mayonnaise to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance to enhance flavors.

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