Tuna Pasta Salad (+Video)

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This Tuna Pasta Salad recipe is a classic favorite. Elbow macaroni, canned tuna, peas and a seasoned mayonnaise all combine for a family favorite!

A CLASSIC TUNA PASTA SALAD RECIPE

Tuna Macaroni Salad is a dish that doesn't get a lot of credit. It's one of those meals that most of us remember our Mommas making. It is economical and it makes a lot. I absolutely love to dig into a bowl of this stuff. It is one of my favorite comfort foods (besides The Best Ever Potato Salad). This classic pasta salad really is an entire meal in one!

a close up photo of tuna macaroni salad shown in a large white serving bowl.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is Tuna Pasta Salad?

Tuna Pasta Salad is a dish made with macaroni pasta, canned tuna in a creamy, mayonnaise based dressing. It is typically served cold as a refreshing meal or side dish.

Why use a shallot instead of an onion?

Shallot has a very light onion flavor and doesn't overpower the other flavors. But you certainly can use an onion if you prefer.

Any substitute for vinegar?

Just add a bit of mustard. You won't taste the actual mustard flavor. It will provide just enough slight tang to balance the other flavors.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Elbow macaroni is a traditional pasta shape to use for this recipe. However, you really could use any pasta shape you enjoy. Cavatappi or shell pasta would work great.

What kind of canned tuna should I use?

I only use canned tuna in water. Canned tuna in oil or any other flavors will change the consistency and texture of the tuna pasta salad.

Is Tuna Pasta Salad healthy?

Tuna Pasta Salad can be a healthy and nutritious meal if made with wholesome ingredients and a balanced dressing. Tuna is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the amount of mayonnaise or other dressing used will obviously impact the calorie and fat content of the dish.

Can Tuna Pasta Salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, Tuna Pasta Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to serve (about 24 hours in advance). In fact, I think that the flavors of the salad improve after a few hours or even overnight in the fridge.

How long does Tuna Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

Tuna Pasta Salad can last for up to four days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. However, it is important to note that the quality of the salad may start to degrade after a day or two.

The Best Tuna Macaroni Salad recipe from The Country Cook, tuna pasta salad shown close up in a small white bowl.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED: (SEE RECIPE CARD BELOW FOR THE FULL RECIPE)

elbow macaroni
canned tuna
hardboiled eggs
shallot
mayonnaise
sweet pickle relish
celery seed
lemon juice
salt & pepper
frozen peas

elbow macaroni noodles, canned tuna, hardboiled eggs, shallots, mayonnaise, sweet relish, salt, pepper, celery seed.

HOW TO MAKE TUNA PASTA SALAD:

Cook macaroni according to directions on package. While pasta is cooking, drain cans of tuna well. Chop hard boiled eggs and shallot. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, celery seed, lemon juice, salt & pepper. Stir well to combine.

drained canned tuna added to mayonnaise mixture in a large clear bowl.

Stir in tuna.

cooked macaroni, diced shallots, peas, chopped eggs added to tuna mixture.

Once macaroni is cooked, drain well and rinse with cold water until pasta has cooled. Pour drained macaroni into a large bowl. Pour mayonnaise mixture onto pasta.Then add chopped eggs and shallot, followed by thawed peas. Stir well.

Cover with plastic wrap and pop into the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.