Description
A creamy and tangy tuna pasta salad with tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp celery, sharp red onion, and fresh herbs. This quick, budget-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Its balanced flavors and textures make it a crowd-pleasing classic.
Ingredients
12 oz small pasta (like elbow macaroni or fusilli)
1 can (5 oz) solid white albacore tuna, drained
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 stalks celery, finely diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool
In a large bowl, flake tuna with a fork until the texture is light and uniform
Whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth
Fold cooled pasta into the dressing until fully coated
Add celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir gently to combine
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors
Notes
Use olive oil-packed tuna for added richness; drain thoroughly for lighter texture
Add diced apple or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge
Meal prep tip: Separate dressing to keep pasta light, mix just before serving
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cup portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg