Why You’ll Love The Best Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
It’s quick and easy, ready in about half an hour.
The combination of creamy and tangy dressing adds bold flavor.
It’s loaded with texture from crunchy vegetables and tender pasta.
Perfect for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge.
A balanced, filling dish that works as a side or main meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
16 ounce box rotini or fusili pasta
3 (5 ounce) cans whole chunk tuna packed in water
3/4 cup frozen peas
3/4 cup celery, chopped
6 green onions, finely sliced (light green parts)
2 medium Roma tomatoes, chopped
1 cup kalamata olives, sliced
2–3 pepperoncini, sliced
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, coarsely chopped
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2–3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon celery salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 kalamata olives, finely minced (optional)
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
Place the frozen peas in a colander and pour boiling water over them. Drain and let cool.
To prepare the dressing, combine the Italian dressing ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of the prepared Italian dressing until creamy. Taste and adjust by adding more mayonnaise or dressing if needed.
In a large mixing bowl, add the tuna and break it apart with a fork. You can add the liquid from one can for extra moisture if desired.
Add the cooked pasta, celery, green onions, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, and peas to the bowl. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss until well coated.
Add the chopped tomatoes last and toss lightly to avoid breaking them apart.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve or chill before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Swap tuna with canned salmon or shredded chicken.
Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Use Greek yogurt instead of some of the mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Add hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
Try feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Mediterranean twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store the tuna pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
If the salad becomes dry, add a small amount of mayonnaise or dressing to refresh it.
This dish is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this tuna pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors blend together.
What type of tuna works best?
Chunk tuna in water is ideal because it’s lighter and blends well with the dressing.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna can be used, though canned is more convenient.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Toss it with a little olive oil after draining and rinsing.
Can I skip the olives?
Yes, simply leave them out if you don’t enjoy their flavor.
Is this recipe served warm or cold?
It is best served cold or slightly chilled.
Can I freeze tuna pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the pasta and dressing can change.
How can I make it healthier?
Use light mayonnaise or substitute part of it with Greek yogurt.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely, this recipe is very flexible and works well with many vegetables.
What can I serve with tuna pasta salad?
It pairs well with grilled vegetables, bread, or as a side to a main dish.
Conclusion
The Best Tuna Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together creamy dressing, tender pasta, and fresh ingredients in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick meal or a gathering, it’s a reliable recipe that’s both satisfying and easy to customize.
