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Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A creamy, tangy, and satisfying Tuna Pasta Salad loaded with tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp veggies, and a rich dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick make-ahead lunches.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup celery, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add pasta, tuna, celery, onion, peas, relish, and parsley to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything in the dressing.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  5. Stir and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or black pepper.

Notes

  • Chill the salad before serving for best flavor and texture.
  • Add a splash of milk or lemon juice if the salad thickens in the fridge.
  • Great with crackers, lettuce wraps, or served in a sandwich.
  • Optional add-ins: hard-boiled eggs, chopped pickles, or shredded cheese.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: tuna pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, picnic salad, meal prep salad, summer recipes