Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

8 servings
This tuna pasta salad recipe is creamy and satisfying! It's a protein-packed quick and easy dinner or make ahead lunch.

Ingredients

  • pasta: shells or bowties

    farfalle

    8 oz
  • frozen peas
    1 c
  • green onions

    or 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

    3
  • minced red onion
    ¼ c
  • 5-ounce cans tuna
    2
  • mayonnaise
    ½ c
  • white wine vinegar
    1 ½ tbsp
  • dried dill
    ½ tsp
  • kosher salt
    ½ tsp
  • optional: 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbles

Directions

  1. 1

    Start a pot of salted water to a boil. Boil the pasta until it is just al dente. Start tasting a few minutes before the package recommends: you want it to be tender but still a little firm on the inside; usually around 7 to 8 minutes. In the last 1 minute, add the peas. Drain the pasta and peas, then rinse with cold water.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, thinly slice the green onions. Mince the red onion. Drain the tuna and flake it with a fork. Place them in a large bowl with the mayonnaise, white vinegar, dill, and kosher salt.

  3. 3

    Once the pasta and peas are cooked, add them to the bowl and mix. Taste and adjust flavors if desired, adding black pepper as necessary. Serve immediately. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days: before eating, allow to come to room temperature. You may want to add a swirl of mayo or sour cream and a pinch of salt to refresh the texture and flavor.

Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

Classic Tuna Pasta Salad

5.0(2)20 min8 servings292 cal

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Based on 2 ratings

acouplecooks.com
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About this Recipe

Craving a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and full of flavor? This Classic Tuna Pasta Salad is your answer, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a delightful make-ahead lunch.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines by combining pantry staples with fresh accents to create a truly comforting dish. The creamy dressing, brightened by white wine vinegar and aromatic dill, perfectly coats tender pasta and flaky tuna, ensuring every bite is balanced and delicious. It’s a straightforward approach that delivers satisfying results every time.

What makes this Classic Tuna Pasta Salad truly special is its inviting texture and rich flavor profile. You'll find a delightful blend of tender pasta, substantial tuna, and the crisp bite of fresh peas. The minced red onion adds a welcome sharpness, while the green onions contribute a milder, savory note. This dish is designed to be substantial, offering a hearty and satisfying experience that tastes like a treasured family recipe.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to personalize your Classic Tuna Pasta Salad. While shells or bowties are suggested, any similarly-sized pasta shape will work beautifully. If fresh green or red onions aren't handy, you can use a touch of onion powder for a similar savory depth. For an extra layer of savory tang, consider adding the optional feta cheese crumbles as specified in the recipe.

This tuna pasta salad is wonderfully versatile. Serve it chilled as a refreshing main dish on a warm day, or pack it for an easy and satisfying lunch at work or school. It also makes a fantastic contribution to potlucks and picnics, always a crowd-pleaser.

Frequently Asked Questions