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Classic Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

A close-up of a serving of creamy Tuna pasta salad mixed with rotini pasta, bright green peas, and diced red onion, garnished with parsley.

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Prepare this simple, creamy tuna pasta salad for a quick lunch, weeknight dinner, or potluck side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or small pasta shape
  • 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pickle relish, celery, red onion, mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
  3. Add the drained tuna and the thawed peas (if using) to the dressing mixture. Gently fold them in.
  4. Add the cooled, drained pasta to the bowl. Mix everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • You can add 1/2 cup of shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
  • This salad tastes best when made ahead of time.

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