Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is a delicious, refreshing dish made with tender elbow macaroni, flaky tuna, sweet green peas, crunchy celery, and a rich, creamy homemade dressing. This deesviral home-style recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for family lunches, summer gatherings, picnics, or a satisfying make-ahead meal.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cans (5 oz / 142 g each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 1 cup (150 g) green peas, thawed
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (75 g) red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup (75 g) dill pickles, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Dressing

• 3/4 cup (180 g) mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain and rinse briefly under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta cool completely and drain thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Tuna

Drain the canned tuna thoroughly to remove excess liquid.

Transfer it to a bowl and gently separate it into small flakes using a fork.

3. Prepare the Vegetables

Thaw the green peas if frozen, then drain well.

Finely dice the celery, red onion, and dill pickles.

Chop the fresh dill and parsley.

4. Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, and pickle juice.

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Combine the Ingredients

Place the cooled macaroni in a large mixing bowl.

Add the flaked tuna, green peas, celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh herbs.

Gently toss to distribute everything evenly.

6. Add the Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture.

Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold everything together until the macaroni, tuna, and vegetables are evenly coated.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

7. Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Before serving, stir gently and garnish with a little fresh dill, parsley, and freshly ground black pepper.

Serve chilled.

Helpful Tips

Drain the tuna well: Excess liquid can make the dressing watery and affect the salad’s texture.

Cool the pasta completely: Warm pasta can thin the creamy dressing.

Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill adds a bright flavor that pairs beautifully with tuna and lemon.

Adjust the creaminess: If the pasta absorbs some dressing while chilling, stir in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.

Add more vegetables: Diced cucumber, chopped bell peppers, or shredded carrots make delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is delicious served with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, crackers, or toasted bread.

It also makes a satisfying lunch on its own or a refreshing side dish for summer picnics and family gatherings.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below for up to 3 days.

Keep refrigerated until serving and avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour in very hot weather.

Freezing is not recommended because the pasta and mayonnaise-based dressing may lose their texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad brings together tender macaroni, flavorful tuna, crunchy vegetables, and a deliciously creamy dressing in one easy homemade dish.

Simple, refreshing, and satisfying, it’s a wonderful recipe for busy weekdays, family meals, and special gatherings.

Would you enjoy this creamy tuna pasta salad as a light lunch or serve it at your next family gathering?