Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for, well, longer than I care to admit! What’s my go-to, my potluck superstar, and honestly, the dish that saves the day when I need something quick, satisfying, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Forget those dry, bland tuna salads you might remember from childhood picnics.tuna pasta saladIs a creamy, dreamy delight that even tuna skeptics (yes, I’m looking at you, Uncle Jerry!) will devour. What’s the secret to a perfect pasta salad? Plus, it’s incredibly easy – even easier than ordering takeout, and that’s saying something!
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What is Tuna Pasta Salad?
Alright, let’s break it down. Tuna pasta saladIn its simplest form, is exactly what it sounds like: cooked pasta tossed with tuna, a creamy dressing, and usually some veggies for good measure. But, *this* isn’t just any tuna pasta salad! What is essentially a cold pasta dish, perfect for warm weather or a quick lunch? It’s the kind of dish where every bite is a little bit different thanks to the mix of ingredients. The cool, creamy dressing coats everything beautifully, making it incredibly satisfying.tuna pasta saladWill leave you wanting more.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Why do I need this recipe in my life? What is a creamy, tangy base that perfectly complements the savory tuna? What’s not to like about celery and red onion? What do you love about this movie?tuna pasta saladWhat makes this dish so simple is that you literally throw everything into a bowl and mix it up and you’re done! What are some of the best pantry staples to make this recipe? What are some of the budget-friendly meals that can be made with just a few ingredients? Can you serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even pack it for lunch? I love potato salad, and it’s one of those dishes that gets better as it sits, making it ideal for meal prepping. If you enjoy easy, flavorful recipes like my classic potato salad or creamy coleslaw, trust me, this is the recipe for you.tuna pasta saladWhat are some of the best things about this pasta dish? What I love the most is how much time it saves me.
How do I make tuna salad?
Quick Overview
Making this tuna pasta saladHow do I make a creamy dressing for pasta? What’s the best way to make a delicious meal? What is the best part? It tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (rotini, elbow macaroni, or penne work great!) – I usually use rotini because I love how the dressing clings to it. Make sure to cook it al dente; mushy pasta is a no-go! *Water for boiling, plus a generous pinch of salt.
For the Creamy Dressing:
* 1 cup mayonnaise – Use your favorite brand! I prefer full-fat for the richest flavor, but light mayo works too. * 1/4 cup sour cream – This adds a lovely tanginess. What are some good substitutes for Greek yogurt? * 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar – For brightness and acidity. * 1 teaspoon sugar – Just a touch to balance the flavors. * 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste. * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best.
For the Add-ins:
* 2 (5-ounce) cans of tuna in water, drained – I prefer tuna packed in water rather than oil, but either works. Make sure to drain it well! * 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped – Adds a nice crunch and freshness. * 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – For a little zing. If you find red onion too strong, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before using. * 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Adds a lovely herbaceous flavor. Can you substitute dried dill for fresh, but use half the amount. * 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed – Optional, but adds a nice pop of color and sweetness.
What is the step-by-
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
How do you cook pasta according to package directions? How do you prevent pasta from sticking together?
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I always add a little extra Dijon mustard because I love the flavor it adds. The dressing is the base of everything here, so make sure you like it before you move on.
Step 3: Add the Tuna and Veggies
Add the drained tuna, celery, red onion, and dill to the bowl. Gently stir to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to break up the tuna too much.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Dressing
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Make sure to get all the nooks and crannies!
Step 5: Chill and Serve
The longer it chills, the better it tastes. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, give it another gentle toss and add the thawed peas, if using. Serve cold and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
This tuna pasta saladIs so versatile, you can serve it with practically anything!For a quick lunch:Serve with crackers or crusty bread.For a picnic: Pack it in a container and enjoy it with some fresh fruit and veggies.
As a side dish: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches.
For a potluck:What’s a crowd pleaser? Just make sure to keep it chilled until serving. I make sandwiches with it on croissants. If you’re feeling fancy, you could also serve it in lettuce cups for a lighter option. If it’s a backyard barbecue, I often pair it with grilled corn on the cob and some watermelon. The possibilities are endless!
How do I make a perfect tuna salad?
I’ve made this. Okay, I’ve made this.tuna pasta saladI’ve learned a lot over the years, so I’ve picked up some tricks along the way.Pasta perfection:Don’t overcook pasta! Al dente is key for the best texture. Rinsing it with cold water also helps prevent it from becoming mushy.Dressing adjustments: Dressing adjustmentsIf the pasta is too tangy, add a little more sugar. If it’s too tangy, add a squeeze of lemon juice.Veggie variations:What are some good ways to experiment with different veggies. Diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers would all be delicious additions.Tuna tips:I prefer tuna packed in water rather than oil, but that’s just personal preference. Make sure to drain it well!Herb hacks:If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute dried dill for fresh dill. Use half the amount. What are some other herbs that would be delicious include parsley, chives, or basil?Make ahead magic:What is the best way to make a salad in advance?Spice it up:If you want to add a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or a dash of hot sauce to the salad. My family loves a little bit of heat, but you can adjust it to your liking! Sometimes I’ll add a few diced jalapenos if I have them lying around. It brings the flavor up a notch
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
This tuna pasta saladWhat are some tips for storing food properly?Refrigerator Storage: How do youStore salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. The dressing may thicken slightly as it sits, so you may need to add a little milk or mayonnaise before serving.How do I use a freezer I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and become watery when thawed.
Serving:Always serve salad cold. If it’s been in the refrigerator for a while, give it a good stir before serving.Prep tip: If you are making this for later, wait to add the vegetables until just before serving. This will ensure they stay crisp.
What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora
Final Thoughts
What’s your family’s favorite food?tuna pasta saladWhat’s a quick, easy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a potluck dish, this recipe is sure to please. What are some of my favorite pasta salad recipes? I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out, so please let me know in the comments below if you try it! I’m always looking for new variations, so share your tips too.
Tuna Pasta Salad: 5 Reasons It's Your Best Meal Prep Companion!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fusilli pasta cooked and cooled
- 14 ounces canned skipjack tuna in water drained well
- 1 cup diced cucumber seeded and finely chopped
- 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 cups baby spinach lightly chopped
- 1 cup light mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the fusilli pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente as per package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Toss gently to mix without breaking up the tuna too much.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the light mayonnaise and sour cream until well blended. Stir in fresh parsley and ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooled pasta to the tuna mixture, then pour about half of the dressing over the salad. Mix gently to thoroughly coat.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Before serving, add the remaining dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir well and serve chilled.
