Go Back
Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

A cool, comforting pasta salad made with tender pasta, flaky tuna, crunchy vegetables, and a smooth creamy dressing that’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, and easy lunches.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: pasta, Seafood dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces short pasta such as rotini shells, or elbow macaroni
  • 2 cans tuna in water very well drained
  • 1 cup celery finely chopped
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup frozen peas thawed
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in well-salted water until just tender, then drain and allow to cool.
  2. Whisk mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add cooled pasta, tuna, celery, onion, and peas to a large bowl.
  4. Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
  5. Cover and chill for at least one hour so flavors fully blend.
  6. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

• Drain tuna very well to keep the salad creamy, not watery.
• For extra tang, add a splash of pickle brine or vinegar.
• Replace part of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add crunchy ingredients right before serving if making ahead.
Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe