Here’s a simple and tasty Classic Tuna Pasta Salad recipe that’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or a side dish at a gathering. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comes together quickly!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/4 cup sweet relish or chopped dill pickles
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, optional for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
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Prepare the dressing:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), white wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and sweet relish or chopped dill pickles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the salad:
- Add the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, diced celery, and chopped red onion (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
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Chill:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tuna pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve:
- When ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: You can add some chopped hard-boiled eggs, capers, or even peas.
- For a lighter version: Swap out some or all of the mayo for Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Make it ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge for a day or two, making it great for meal prep.
Enjoy your fresh, classic tuna pasta salad!