Dinner

Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 3 cups (12 oz./340g) uncooked pasta (any small shape); 10 ounces (280g, 2 cans) canned tuna (in water, drained); 1/2 cup (2 stalks) diced celery; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1 cup frozen peas (thawed and drained); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

ByChloe Raven August 3, 2025August 3, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Bright, creamy, and just the right level of satisfying, Tuna Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that feels like a mini celebration every time you make it. Imagine tender noodles tossed with flaky tuna, crisp veggies, and a tangy, herb-flecked dressing — it’s comfort food with a fresh twist! Whether you’re prepping ahead for a sunny picnic, hosting friends, or whipping up a quick weekday lunch, this recipe delivers all the flavor and ease you crave, with just a handful of pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tuna Pasta Salad is its simplicity — every ingredient matters! Each one brings something important to the table, from color and crunch to tang and umami. Here’s a breakdown to help you nail that perfect bite every time.

Pasta: Choose a small shape (like fusilli, rotini, or shells) so it holds the dressing and gives great texture.
Canned Tuna: Go for tuna packed in water for a lighter, cleaner flavor that lets the other ingredients shine.
Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch, balancing out the creaminess of the dressing.
Red Onion: Offers a gentle bite and beautiful color; soak in water beforehand for a milder flavor.
Frozen Peas: These provide bursts of sweetness and bright green color; thaw and drain before using.
Mayonnaise: Gives the salad its classic creamy texture — full-fat is best for richness.
Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream): Lightens up the dressing and adds a welcome tang.
Dijon Mustard: Lends subtle heat and depth to the dressing — don’t skip this!
Lemon Juice: Brightens up all the flavors; freshly squeezed is a game-changer.
Garlic: Just a clove awakens the whole dish with a savory note.
Dried Dill (or Fresh): Offers that classic herby flavor; opt for fresh dill if you have it for an extra pop.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors throughout the salad.
Black Pepper: Gives just a touch of warmth in every mouthful.

How to Make Tuna Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your favorite small-shaped pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente — this usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain and give the noodles a good rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and keep them perfectly firm for your Tuna Pasta Salad. This step makes the salad refreshingly cool and prevents the dressing from soaking in too quickly.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing

While the pasta works its magic, grab a medium mixing bowl and make the dressing. Combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This is the heart of the salad — the dressing pulls everything together with zesty, bright, and irresistibly tangy creaminess!

Step 3: Mix Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, drained tuna (chunked up with a fork), diced celery, red onion, and thawed peas. Spoon the dressing over the top and use a spatula or large spoon to gently mix everything until each piece is well coated. There’s something so rewarding about watching all the colorful ingredients come together into a bowl of happiness.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and let your Tuna Pasta Salad rest in the fridge until you’re ready to serve (at least 30 minutes is best). This lets the flavors mingle and turn the salad into something even more magical. Give it a quick stir before serving, and don’t forget to garnish with extra dill if you’re feeling fancy!

How to Serve Tuna Pasta Salad

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped dill on top adds a lovely burst of green and a hint of aromatic flavor. Want to take it up another notch? Try a pinch of flaky sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, or even a dusting of lemon zest. A little garnish makes the Tuna Pasta Salad look as good as it tastes!

Side Dishes

This salad plays nicely with so many sides! Pair it with some crusty bread, sliced tomatoes, a light green salad, or crispy potato chips for contrast. For summer gatherings, it’s right at home next to watermelon wedges, pickles, or roasted veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Tuna Pasta Salad a twist by serving it in individual mason jars or lettuce cups for a fun, picnic-friendly option. Scoop onto a bed of leafy greens for a lighter lunch, or stuff it inside a halved avocado for a delicious and pretty presentation. It’s as flexible as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuna Pasta Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it looks a little dry after sitting, just stir in a spoonful of extra yogurt or mayo to refresh it. The flavors actually get even better after a night in the fridge!

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the creamy dressing and veggies lose their texture when thawed. Tuna Pasta Salad tastes best freshly made or enjoyed within a few days from the fridge.

Reheating

Tuna Pasta Salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat — in fact, a chill from the fridge brings out the crispness of the veggies and keeps the dressing smooth and creamy. Simply stir before serving if the salad has settled a bit.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Tuna Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape works well — think bowties, penne, elbows, or even orzo. The key is to choose a shape with curves and ridges so the dressing clings nicely.

Is it possible to make Tuna Pasta Salad dairy-free?

Yes, just substitute dairy-free yogurt or plant-based sour cream in place of the Greek yogurt, and use a vegan mayo. The salad stays creamy and delicious without missing a beat!

Can I prepare Tuna Pasta Salad ahead of time?

You sure can! In fact, it’s even tastier after a few hours in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving, and add a touch more mayo or yogurt if it needs a little loosen up.

What kind of tuna should I use?

Canned tuna in water is classic for this dish, but you can also use tuna packed in olive oil for a richer flavor. Whichever you choose, drain it well before mixing into the salad.

How do I make the salad less tangy?

If you prefer less tang, reduce the amount of lemon juice or swap Greek yogurt for a touch more mayo. Adjust the dressing to your taste until it’s just right for you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple recipe that feels both nostalgic and fresh, Tuna Pasta Salad is the answer! I hope you give it a try and find yourself coming back to it again and again — it’s a classic for a reason, and always a welcome addition to any table.

Chloe Raven

Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need