There’s something incredibly comforting about a Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad—it’s light yet satisfying, packed with protein, and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you need a quick lunch, a potluck favorite, or a refreshing side dish, this recipe is a total game-changer. It’s creamy, zesty, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Protein-Packed: Tuna makes it a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
Creamy & Flavorful: The perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and fresh.
Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients in Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
Pasta: The base of the salad—rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work great.
Canned Tuna: Packed with protein and easy to use. Choose high-quality tuna for the best flavor.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt: A creamy combo that keeps it light yet indulgent.
Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess.
Red Onion: A bit of sharpness for contrast and flavor.
Sweet Pickles or Relish: Brings a touch of sweetness to complement the tuna.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and a little tang.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): Brings a fresh, vibrant touch to every bite.
Salt & Black Pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
How to Make Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool. This keeps it from getting mushy.
Prep the Ingredients: While the pasta cools, dice the celery, red onion, and pickles. Drain the tuna well.
Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, tuna, and chopped veggies. Pour in the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold, garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4-6
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
How to Serve Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
On Its Own: Enjoy it as a light yet filling main dish.
With Crackers: Scoop it up with buttery crackers for a fun twist.
On a Bed of Greens: Serve over fresh spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
As a Sandwich: Pile it onto toasted bread or a croissant for a tuna salad sandwich.
With Fresh Veggies: Pair with cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, or bell pepper strips.
Additional Tips
Use High-Quality Tuna: Solid white albacore tuna has the best texture and flavor.
Chill for Best Flavor: Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the taste.
Make It Lighter: Swap out some or all of the mayo for more Greek yogurt.
Add Some Crunch: Toss in chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for texture.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like bowtie, fusilli, or penne work well.
Q3: What can I use instead of mayo?
A3: Try using all Greek yogurt or even avocado for a healthier alternative.
Q4: Can I add other veggies?
A4: Of course! Peas, bell peppers, or cucumbers make great additions.
Q5: How do I keep it from drying out?
A5: Stir in a little extra dressing before serving if needed.
Q6: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
A6: Yes! Just cook and flake fresh tuna before mixing it in.
Q7: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A7: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Q8: Can I make this dairy-free?
A8: Yes! Just use dairy-free mayo and skip the Greek yogurt.
Q9: How do I make it spicier?
A9: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
Q10: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A10: Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a meal prep option, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll be a repeat favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and healthy tuna pasta salad is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor! Made with whole wheat pasta, chunky tuna, green peas, celery, and a light avocado yogurt dressing, it’s the perfect quick lunch or meal prep option.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 oz whole wheat penne (or gluten-free)
- 2–3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
- 6.7 oz tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1 very ripe avocado
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes (or to taste)
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the whole wheat penne according to package directions.
- Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside in a large bowl to cool.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the cooled pasta.
- Add celery, green peas, tuna, and red onion.
- Gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
-
Serve & Garnish:
- Divide into bowls and garnish with extra dill.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt or mayo.
- Extra Creamy: Add a splash of olive oil for a silkier texture.
- Storage Tip: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 30mg