Print

Classic Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

A close-up, bright photo of creamy Tuna pasta salad featuring elbow macaroni, chunks of tuna, red onion, and celery in a white bowl.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This is a simple, creamy tuna pasta salad recipe perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick weeknight meals. It uses common pantry ingredients and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or shell pasta
  • 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, thawed peas, chopped celery, and chopped red onion.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. This is your dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the tuna and vegetable mixture. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Fold in the cooled, drained pasta until fully incorporated.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • You can prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance; flavors improve overnight.
  • If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in one extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/tuna-pasta-salad-classic-creamy-recipe/