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Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

4.4 from 727 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt until smooth and well blended.
  4. 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.
  5. 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