Tuna Pasta Salad

My homemade Tuna Pasta Salad is a satisfying and creamy side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep. With a blend of al dente pasta, canned albacore tuna, crunchy dill pickles, and creamy homemade dressing, it hits all the right notes. Better yet, you can make it in advance because it is even better the next day. This dish is a great balance of protein, carbs, and texture in every bite, and is easy to make and easy to enjoy.

Tuna Pasta Salad

My tuna salad recipe uses solid albacore tuna for its meaty texture and rich flavor. It’s mixed with a simple, flavorful dressing of mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings, giving the salad a creamy base with a hint of tang.

This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Tuna Pasta Salad holds up well in the fridge and is even more flavorful after chilling. It’s an adaptable base recipe, too. You can switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preference. Keep it in your summer rotation for a low-effort, high-reward side or light main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Creamy and hearty – The mayo-based dressing coats every ingredient for satisfying richness.
• Easy to make – Minimal prep and straightforward steps mean less time in the kitchen.
• Great for gatherings – Ideal for picnics, cookouts, or potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly – Flavors improve after chilling, making it perfect for prepping the night before.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal taste.

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Pasta Salad with Tuna Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.

• Solid Albacore Tuna – Packed in water for a cleaner flavor and firm texture that holds up in salad.
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing and binds all ingredients.
• Yellow Mustard – Adds a mild tang that cuts through the richness of the mayo.
• Garlic Salt – Boosts the overall flavor with both saltiness and garlicky depth.
• Onion Powder – Provides subtle sweetness and savory flavor.
• Dill – Lends a fresh, slightly citrusy note that pairs well with the pickles and peas.
• Macaroni Noodles – The pasta base that holds the salad together, best when chilled after rinsing.
• Frozen Baby Peas – Adds sweetness and a pop of color, with a quick thaw in the mix.
• Dill Pickles – Provides crunch and briny brightness to balance the creamy elements.
• Colby Jack Cheese – Adds richness and a slightly tangy flavor that complements the tuna.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adds texture and a mild, savory boost of protein.

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How to Make Pasta Salad with Tuna

Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna (with its water), mayonnaise, mustard, garlic salt, onion powder, and dill.
2. Stir until the dressing is smooth and the tuna is well-distributed.
3. Gently fold in the cooked and cooled macaroni, baby peas, diced pickles, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
4. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving cold.

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FAQ

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better made ahead. The flavors blend and improve after a few hours in the fridge.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Yes. Use canned salmon or chicken instead of tuna. Swap Colby Jack for cheddar or mozzarella. Add celery for extra crunch or use Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayo.

How do I reheat it?

This dish is best served cold. Reheating isn’t recommended, as it may alter the texture and flavor.

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Serve This With…

• Grilled Chicken Skewers or Burgers
• Watermelon slices or Fruit Salad
• Garlic Bread or Grilled Corn on the Cob

This Tuna Pasta Salad is creamy, satisfying, and simple to prepare. It works equally well as a main or side dish, making it a go-to for warm-weather meals or quick lunches. The mix of textures and flavors makes every bite interesting, while the make-ahead convenience saves time on busy days.

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