Classic Tuna Macaroni Salad: A Creamy and Flavorful Side Dish
This creamy tuna macaroni salad is a perfect balance of tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It's a delicious make-ahead dish for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or a quick lunch. Packed with protein and crunch, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk for dressing
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Wooden spoon (for mixing)
Ingredients
- ✅ For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni cooked and cooled
- 2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained and flaked
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- ½ cup sweet peas fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- ✅ For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or use more mayo
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
- 🔸 Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- 1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes).
- 2️⃣ Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool completely.
- 🔸 Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- 3️⃣ In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- 🔸 Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- 4️⃣ In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, tuna, celery, red onion, and sweet peas.
- 5️⃣ Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- 🔸 Step 4: Chill & Serve
- 6️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- 7️⃣ Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve chilled!
Notes
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge!
For Extra Flavor: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, or diced pickles.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Healthier Option: Use low-fat mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
For Extra Flavor: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs, shredded carrots, or diced pickles.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Healthier Option: Use low-fat mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.