Tuna Pasta Salad

A vibrant scene of past summer picnics brings a comforting nostalgia, especially when a refreshing bowl of Tuna Pasta Salad is involved. This dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. The blend of textures and flavors works seamlessly, creating a delightful harmony that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a light yet filling meal. It’s a great side dish for barbecues or a standalone lunch. You can make it ahead of time, as it stores well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It features tender elbow noodles that soak up the dressing perfectly.
• Packed with protein from tuna and hard-boiled eggs, it’s satisfying and nourishing.
• Freshness from peas and red onion adds a crisp contrast to the creamy base.
• The dressing is easy to whip up and is customizable to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your 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

Use light mayo for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Elbow noodles: substitute with rotini or penne.
• Tuna: canned chicken works well too.
• Red onion: use green onions for a milder taste.
• Sugar: honey can be a natural sweetener.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Cook the Pasta

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add your tuna, chopped eggs, diced onion, and defrosted peas. Gently mix these together until well combined.

Add Pasta

Pour the drained pasta into the bowl with the other ingredients and stir to combine. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Make Dressing

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

Mix Dressing with Pasta

Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture, scraping the bowl to collect all of the dressing. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This chilling time helps the pasta soak up some of the delicious dressing.

How to Store It

Fridge: best eaten within 3 to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the pasta will become mushy.
Reheat: not recommended; enjoy it cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure pasta is fully cooled before mixing, to maintain texture.
• Adjust sugar in the dressing according to your taste preference.
• Letting the dish chill longer enhances the flavors even more.
• Stir gently to prevent breaking up the pasta and eggs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish at summer barbecues.
• Pair with fresh fruit for a light lunch.
• Enjoy at potlucks or family gatherings for a crowd-pleaser.