Tuna Pasta Salad

Creamy, easy, and the perfect picnic side, this Tuna Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser! Packed with elbow noodles, tender peas, crunchy red onion, and hearty tuna, all tossed in a deliciously creamy sauce. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion—from summer barbecues to family gatherings. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Tuna Pasta Salad can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for picnics or as a main dish for lunch; it fits well into any meal plan.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tuna, eggs, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Option: This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Serving up to 10 people makes it an excellent choice for gatherings and parties.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Tuna Pasta Salad, having the right tools at hand will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until al dente.
• Strainer: Helps quickly drain the pasta while keeping it intact.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes are needed for combining ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing smoothly.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious Tuna Pasta Salad:

For the Salad

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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. Drain the water and run cool water over the pasta to stop cooking and cool it down.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, add your drained tuna, chopped eggs, diced onion, and defrosted peas.

Step 3: Add Pasta

Pour in your drained pasta and stir everything together until well combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 5: Mix Dressing with Pasta

Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture. 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 up to an hour. This allows the salad to chill and absorb some dressing flavor before serving.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Tuna Pasta Salad that is sure to impress your guests!

How to Serve Tuna Pasta Salad

Serving Tuna Pasta Salad can be a delightful experience. This creamy dish is versatile and pairs well with various flavors and textures. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

For a Classic Picnic

• Serve chilled: Tuna Pasta Salad is best enjoyed cold. Keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
• Use portable containers: Consider packing individual portions in mason jars for easy transport.

With Fresh Greens

• Add a side salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for added freshness and crunch.
• Top with lettuce: Serve over a bed of lettuce for a colorful presentation.

As a Light Lunch

• Sandwich filling: Use Tuna Pasta Salad as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for a satisfying lunch.
• Crackers on the side: Offer some crunchy crackers to scoop up the salad.

At Family Gatherings

• Buffet-style serving: Place the salad in a large bowl and let guests help themselves.
• Garnish creatively: Add fresh herbs or sliced olives on top for an appealing look.

How to Perfect Tuna Pasta Salad

Perfecting your Tuna Pasta Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips to make your dish stand out.

• Bold flavors: Experiment with spices like dill or paprika for an extra flavor boost.
• Fresh ingredients: Use freshly chopped veggies for added crunch and nutrition.
• Creamy consistency: Adjust mayonnaise and milk ratios to achieve your desired creaminess.
• Chill time: Allow the salad to chill before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
• Taste test: Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed to suit your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its creamy texture and savory flavor. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread adds a warm, buttery touch.
2. Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw balances the richness of the pasta salad.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory tuna.
4. Potato Chips: Serve crunchy potato chips on the side for added texture and flavor.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies bring depth and color to your meal.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a light bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuna Pasta Salad, certain pitfalls can lead to a less-than-stellar dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Always follow package directions and aim for al dente texture.
• Using too much mayo: While mayo adds creaminess, too much can overwhelm the salad. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste.
• Skipping seasoning: A bland Tuna Pasta Salad is unappealing. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper along with seasoning salt for flavor enhancement.
• Not chilling enough: Serving the salad warm can detract from its taste and texture. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
• Neglecting ingredient quality: Using low-quality tuna or stale ingredients can affect the overall taste. Choose fresh ingredients for a better salad experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Tuna Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it is fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Tuna Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its creamy dressing.
• If necessary, freeze only the plain pasta mixture (without dressing) in an airtight container.
• Use within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Tuna Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered in foil for about 15-20 minutes. Ensure it’s heated through without drying out.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm. Stir well between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for Tuna Pasta Salad?

To make Tuna Pasta Salad, you will need elbow noodles, canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, frozen peas, red onion, mayo, milk, seasoning salt, sugar, and salt & pepper.

Can I customize my Tuna Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like celery, bell peppers, or olives for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does Tuna Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Tuna Pasta Salad lasts about 3-4 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Tuna Pasta Salad is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for easy lunches or picnics.

What is an alternative dressing for Tuna Pasta Salad?

For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice instead of mayo. It provides a tangy flavor while reducing calories!

Final Thoughts

Tuna Pasta Salad is a creamy and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for picnics or family gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences or available ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you might discover your new favorite salad!

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

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Tuna Pasta Salad

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 people

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Description

Tuna Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings together tender elbow noodles, hearty tuna, and crunchy vegetables, making it an ideal side for picnics or gatherings. This crowd-pleasing salad is not only quick to prepare—taking less than 30 minutes—but also incredibly versatile, serving beautifully as a side or a light meal. With the perfect blend of flavors from the creamy dressing, peas, and red onion, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Make it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for a refreshing treat that tastes even better after the flavors meld together. Enjoy this delightful Tuna Pasta Salad at your next barbecue or family get-together!

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Ingredients

• Elbow noodles
• Canned tuna
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Frozen peas
• Red onion
• Mayonnaise
• Milk
• Seasoning salt
• Sugar

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow noodles in salted water until al dente, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool under running water.
2. In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, chopped hard-boiled eggs, defrosted peas, and diced red onion.
3. Add cooled pasta to the mixture and stir gently until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, seasoning salt, sugar, and salt & pepper to taste.
5. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and stir gently to coat evenly.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 150mg