Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
A light and refreshing Tuna Pasta Salad combining tender shell pasta, protein-rich albacore tuna, crisp celery, sweet peas, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic side.
- Author: Rico
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Pasta and Tuna
- 8 ounces small shell pasta (or your favorite bite-size pasta)
- 7 ounces canned albacore white tuna, packed in water, drained
Vegetables
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Dried dill weed, to taste (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the small shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red onion, chopped celery, frozen peas, cooked pasta, and drained tuna. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt until smooth and well blended.
- Toss pasta with dressing: Pour half of the dressing into the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried dill weed to taste.
- Chill and serve: Cover the pasta salad and the remaining dressing separately and refrigerate both for 30 minutes. Before serving, stir in the remaining dressing for extra creaminess and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use bite-sized pasta such as shells, elbows, or rotini for easy eating.
- Frozen peas can be thawed quickly by rinsing under warm water.
- Adjust mayonnaise and yogurt ratio depending on your preferred creaminess and tartness.
- Adding fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavor.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keywords: tuna pasta salad, albacore tuna recipe, easy pasta salad, healthy lunch, creamy tuna salad