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Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad


  • Author: clara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A comforting and flavorful salad featuring elbow macaroni, flaky tuna, and a creamy dressing, perfect for picnics and potlucks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 1 can good-quality tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: capers, sweet corn, chopped dill pickles, cooked peas, or sautéed cremini mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Bring a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni to the dressing and fold to coat gently.
  5. Flake the tuna and gently fold it into the pasta mixture.
  6. Add the diced celery, red onion, and any optional ingredients.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning, then let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes.
  8. Serve cold, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, mix some Greek yogurt with the mayonnaise. Allow the flavors to meld by letting the salad rest before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pasta salad, tuna salad, creamy salad, picnic recipe, potluck recipe