Tuna Macaroni Salad

This tuna macaroni salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This simple recipe combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, and crisp veggies for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at your next BBQ.  With easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this family favorite in no time. Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

• Recipe Ingredients
• Ingredient Notes
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Recipe Tips & Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Nutrition Facts
• Recipe Reviews

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Recipe Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups cooked whole grain pasta
• 2 – 5 oz. cans of tuna
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced bread and butter pickles
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (1/2 of a pepper)
• 1/2 cup diced celery (2 stalks)
• 1 cup diced carrot
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to personal taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to personal taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

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Ingredient Notes

• Pasta: We recommend using whole grain pasta for added nutrition, but feel free to use your favorite variety. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente (tender yet firm to the bite).  
• Tuna: You can use any type of canned tuna you prefer, such as albacore (white tuna) or light tuna, as long as you have about 10 oz total. Tuna packed in water is the traditional choice, but tuna in oil adds a richer flavor.
• Peas: Frozen peas are convenient, but you can also use fresh or canned peas if you prefer. If using frozen peas, thaw them before adding them to the salad.
• Pickles: Bread and butter pickles add a sweet and tangy crunch. You can also use dill pickles or sweet gherkin pickles for a different flavor.
• Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper adds a vibrant color and sweetness, but you can use any color bell pepper you like or a combination of colors.  
• Celery: Celery provides a classic crunch, but you can also use fennel or cucumber for a different texture.
• Carrot: Carrots add sweetness and color. Feel free to use pre-shredded carrots for convenience.
• Onion: Red onion provides a bit of bite, but you can use yellow or white onion if you prefer a milder flavor.  
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are the basic seasonings for this salad. You can adjust the amounts to your liking or add other seasonings, such as onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cold.

2. In a large bowl, combine the mayo, peas, bread and butter pickles, bell pepper, celery, carrot, and onion.

3. Add in the cooled pasta, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

4. Thoroughly drain the tuna and mix that in. Stir until everything is well coated. Store in the fridge until serving (best served when the salad has been chilled).

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Recipe Tips and Variations

• Explore different veggies: This recipe includes celery, bell pepper, and carrots for a satisfying crunch, but feel free to experiment! Finely diced cucumber, zucchini, or chopped water chestnuts can add a refreshing twist. For an extra crunch, try adding chopped toasted walnuts or pecans.
• Add a kick: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also add a few tablespoons of chopped jalapeño or serrano peppers (remove the seeds for less heat).
• Brighten it up: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar can add a bright note to the salad. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as fresh dill, parsley, or chives.
• Make it creamy: While mayonnaise is the classic base for tuna macaroni salad, you can also use Greek yogurt or a combination of mayonnaise and yogurt for a lighter and tangier dressing.
• Make it a meal: To make this salad a more substantial meal, add protein like chopped hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas. You can also serve it on a bed of lettuce or with a side of crusty bread.
• Get creative with the pasta: While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as rotini, farfalle, or shells. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.

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Nutrition Facts

Calories: 715 kcal | Carbohydrates: 94 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 28.1 g | Sodium: 1,091 mg | Fiber: 11 g | Sugar: 7 g | Cholesterol: 45 mg  | Vitamin D: 6% | Calcium: 7% | Iron: 33% | Potassium: 15%

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Recipe Reviews