Delicious Tuna Macaroni Salad: A Summer Classic Recipe

Tuna macaroni salad is that delightful dish that dances on your palate like a joyful summer picnic in a bowl. With its creamy texture, popping flavors, and a symphony of colors, it’s perfect for those sun-soaked days or cozy gatherings. zesty lime chicken salad Imagine the aroma of tender pasta mingling with zesty pickles and savory tuna—it’s a flavor explosion that’ll have you asking for seconds. quick lemon pasta dish chicken bacon ranch pasta bake.

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When I think about tuna macaroni salad, it brings me back to childhood summers spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. She would whip up her famous salad while we played outside, the scent wafting through the open windows. It was our go-to for family picnics and potlucks, and every bite was a burst of nostalgia wrapped in creamy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

I remember one summer day when I brought this tuna macaroni salad to a family reunion—everyone raved about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Macaroni Pasta: Choose elbow macaroni for that classic shape; it holds the dressing perfectly.
• Canned Tuna: Opt for solid white tuna packed in water for the best texture and flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for a creamier texture; low-fat versions can be too watery.
• Diced Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch; choose firm stalks for the best results.
• Diced Red Onion: A little goes a long way; red onion offers both color and a mild bite.
• Sweet Relish: This gives the salad that signature zing; don’t skip this ingredient!
• Hard-Boiled Eggs: They add richness and protein; cook them until well set but not overdone.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds freshness and color as a lovely garnish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Tuna Mixture: While the pasta cools, drain canned tuna thoroughly and flake it in a large mixing bowl. Add diced celery, red onion, sweet relish, salt, and pepper.

Add Creaminess: In the same bowl, stir in mayonnaise until everything is well coated. You can adjust the amount based on your desired creaminess level.

Incorporate Hard-Boiled Eggs: Chop hard-boiled eggs into small pieces and gently fold them into the mixture. Be careful not to mash them too much!

Combine Everything: Once your pasta is cooled completely, add it to the tuna mixture. Stir gently until everything is well mixed and looks fabulous.

Chill Before Serving: Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.

Enjoy making this delightful tuna macaroni salad! It’s simple enough even if you’re juggling multiple tasks or entertaining guests at home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the best tuna macaroni salad, cook the pasta first; let it cool while mixing the dressing and other ingredients. This way, everything combines beautifully without becoming mushy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the tuna for chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Add in some diced bell peppers or olives for extra crunch and flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store your tuna macaroni salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. There’s no need to reheat; enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!

Sharing this recipe reminds me of summer cookouts where my family gathered around, devouring bowls of this tuna macaroni salad while swapping stories and laughter. refreshing ranch cauliflower salad.

FAQ

What type of pasta is best for tuna macaroni salad?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but rotini or shells add fun shapes and textures.

Can I make tuna macaroni salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling overnight in the fridge.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?

Greek yogurt or avocado can provide a creamy texture with fewer calories!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Tuna Macaroni Salad

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Tuna macaroni salad is a classic comfort dish that combines creamy pasta, savory tuna, and crunchy vegetables in a delightful medley of flavors. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches, this easy-to-make recipe brings back fond memories of summer gatherings with family and friends. With its bright colors and zesty taste, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (5 oz) solid white tuna packed in water, drained
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup sweet relish
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, flake the drained tuna and add diced celery, red onion, sweet relish, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in mayonnaise until the mixture is well coated. Adjust for creaminess as desired.
4. Gently fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs.
5. Add the cooled pasta to the tuna mixture and combine thoroughly.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 530mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 95mg