This Tuna Macaroni Salad is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—every bite feels like a hug from your favorite food. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing side dish or a filling main course, this one’s got your back. Trust me, it’s going to be a hit at any table, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
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Why You’ll Love Tuna Macaroni Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this Tuna Macaroni Salad—simple ingredients that come together in a flavorful explosion. Let’s break it down:
Macaroni: The base of the salad. Tender, cooked pasta that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
Canned Tuna: Packed with protein and a slight saltiness that pairs perfectly with the mayo-based dressing.
Mayonnaise: The creamy binder that holds everything together. It adds richness and a smooth texture.
Dijon Mustard: A little tangy kick to balance the creaminess and enhance the flavors.
Celery: Adds a fresh crunch and a touch of sweetness, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
Red Onion: A bit of sharpness and color that makes the salad even more vibrant and flavorful.
Pickles: They bring a delightful sour contrast to the richness of the mayo, giving your taste buds a little zing.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: The creamy yolks add an extra layer of richness and make the salad even more satisfying.
Salt and Pepper: The essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Boil the Macaroni: Start by cooking your macaroni according to the package directions until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool.
Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta cools, chop your celery, red onion, pickles, and hard-boiled eggs. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they’ll mix in, creating the perfect bite every time.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, canned tuna, chopped celery, red onion, pickles, and eggs.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as you go.
Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently stir to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled, and enjoy the creamy goodness! This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
How to Serve Tuna Macaroni Salad
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular mayo for a lighter or plant-based version.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make a double batch and have lunch or dinner ready for the next few days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute canned tuna with another type of fish?
A1: Absolutely! You can use canned salmon or even chicken if you prefer. The flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe! Prepare it the night before and let it chill in the fridge overnight. The flavors will have time to meld together and taste even better the next day.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Freezing is not recommended for this dish as the texture may change once thawed.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Tuna Macaroni Salad is best served cold, so simply pull it out of the fridge and enjoy it straight away.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the ingredients accordingly and have a larger bowl to mix everything together.
Q7: Can I use a different kind of pasta?
A7: Yes! You can substitute macaroni with any short pasta like rotini or penne, whatever you prefer.
Q8: How can I make it spicier?
A8: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a little hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.
Q9: Can I make this salad dairy-free?
A9: Yes! Use a dairy-free mayo alternative to keep it dairy-free.
Q10: How long can I keep the Tuna Macaroni Salad?
A10: Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days for the best taste.
Conclusion
Tuna Macaroni Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy on a relaxing day at home, it’s a dish that never disappoints. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!
Print
Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tuna Macaroni Salad is a creamy, refreshing classic that’s perfect for potlucks, quick lunches, or as a light dinner. Packed with tuna, macaroni, peas, and a flavorful mayo-based dressing, it’s a comfort-food favorite that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for quick high protein meals, this chilled pasta salad hits the spot. Great for healthy recipes lunch, recipes appetizers and snacks, or simple high protein meals to keep you full and satisfied.
Ingredients
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16 oz elbow macaroni
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1 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
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1/2 tbsp celery seed (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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3 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
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3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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1 shallot, diced
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1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Instructions
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Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
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In a separate large bowl, mix mayo, pickle relish, celery seed, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
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Add in drained tuna and mix well.
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Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl and toss to coat with the mayo mixture.
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Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced shallot, and thawed peas.
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Mix thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
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Letting it chill helps the flavors meld—don’t skip this step!
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You can substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayo for a lighter version.
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Add diced celery for extra crunch or fresh dill for a herby kick.
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Lasts up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 95mg