Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

This hearty dish delivers protein-rich albacore and vibrant garden flavors in every bite.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 17, 2025

This hearty dish delivers protein-rich albacore and vibrant garden flavors in every bite.

Introduction to Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna pasta salad is a versatile dish that can serve as both a main course and a side dish, making it ideal for family meals, picnics, or potlucks. It combines the protein-rich benefits of tuna with the comfort of pasta and the freshness of vegetables. In this article, we will explore the best ingredients and techniques for making an easy and delicious tuna pasta salad.

What’s in Tuna Pasta Salad?

Tuna pasta salad typically includes a variety of ingredients that complement each other in texture and flavor. These include:

Albacore Tuna: This type of tuna is preferred for its firm texture and mild flavor, which holds up well when mixed with pasta and vegetables.
Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells are used to catch and retain the creamy dressing and chunky ingredients.
Vegetables: Common additions include celery for crunch, bell peppers for sweetness, peas for freshness, and onions for depth.
Dressing: A creamy mixture of mayonnaise and sour cream provides the base, while lemon juice adds a zesty touch.

Ingredients for Tuna Pasta Salad

Here are the ingredients needed for this recipe:

8 oz. large pasta shells
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
2 (5-oz.) cans albacore tuna, drained
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped red onion
Lettuce, for serving
Crushed potato chips, for garnish

Instructions for Making Tuna Pasta Salad

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this tasty salad:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it stand for a few minutes to cool down.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing and Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Add the cooled pasta, drained tuna, peas, celery, bell pepper, and onion. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce and garnish with crushed potato chips just before serving.

Is Tuna Pasta Salad Good for You?

Tuna pasta salad can be a nutritious option when made with the right ingredients. Here are some health benefits:

Protein Content: Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Vegetable Addition: The presence of vegetables like celery and bell peppers adds fiber and vitamins.
Healthier Options: You can make this dish healthier by using whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta and substituting some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or olive oil mayonnaise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best type of tuna to use in tuna pasta salad?

A: Canned albacore tuna in water is recommended because it retains its texture well and doesn’t add extra oil to the salad.

Q: Can I customize the vegetables in tuna pasta salad?

A: Yes, you can customize the vegetables to your liking. Common alternatives include carrots, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

Q: How long does tuna pasta salad keep in the refrigerator?

A: Tuna pasta salad typically stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb