If you’re looking for a dish that’s refreshing, simple to prepare, and packed with delicious flavors, this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing to create a salad that feels both comforting and light. Whether you need a quick lunch, a picnic go-to, or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe delivers ease and taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with six different groups of ingredients arranged on top of small pasta shells. At the top right, there are beige pieces of cooked chicken. At the top left, there are bright green peas. Just below the peas, there are finely chopped red onions in a light purple shade. Below the onions, shredded orange carrots are placed. To the right of the carrots, there are diced light green celery pieces. All these ingredients rest on a bed of beige pasta shells. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward pantry staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color in your Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe. From the creamy mayonnaise to the crisp celery and bright dill, every addition enhances the overall experience.

12 ounces small shells or elbow macaroni: Perfect bite-sized pasta that holds dressing beautifully.
2 (5-ounce) cans oil or water-packed tuna, drained and flaked: Adds protein and a rich, savory element.
1¼ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that brings it all together.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle tang and depth to the dressing.
2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar: Adds a bright acidity to balance the creaminess.
1½ teaspoons dried dill: Brings a fresh, herbal note that pairs perfectly with tuna.
1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses subtle, savory warmth.
¾ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances overall flavor complexity.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and aroma.
1½ cups frozen peas, thawed: Offers a pop of sweetness and vibrant green color.
1 cup finely chopped celery (about 3 ribs): Delivers crunch and a refreshing bite.
½ cup finely chopped red onion: Adds a mild tang and vivid color contrast.
½ cup grated carrots (optional): Introduces a natural sweetness and extra texture.

How to Make Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your chosen pasta—small shells or elbow macaroni—and cook it until it’s perfectly al dente, just tender but still with a bit of bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps keep the pasta firm and ready to soak up the dressing without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

While the pasta is cooking, grab a large bowl and whisk together your mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, distilled white vinegar, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and all the flavors are harmoniously combined. This dressing is the heart of the salad, bringing creaminess, tang, and herbal brightness all at once.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Once the pasta has cooled, add it to your bowl of dressing. Then fold in the flaked tuna, thawed peas, chopped celery, red onion, and if you want a little extra color and sweetness, grated carrots. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every bite is evenly coated in that delicious dressing. The blend of textures here is incredible—the softness of pasta, the creaminess of tuna and mayo, and the crunch from fresh veggies.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows all the flavors to meld together and gives the salad a refreshing coolness that’s perfect for warmer days or any time you want a light but satisfying meal.

How to Serve Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

A large white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a pasta salad made of shell-shaped pasta mixed with shredded light beige chicken pieces, bright green peas, thin orange carrot strips, small diced purple onions, and pale green celery chunks. The salad is coated lightly with a creamy white dressing that blends all the ingredients together. Two wooden serving utensils with blue painted handles rest next to the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped dill or parsley really elevates this tuna pasta salad. For an extra zing, consider adding a few thin lemon wedges on the side or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving. These simple touches bring a burst of freshness and enhance the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with just about anything! It works perfectly alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, or even as a hearty side to vegetable skewers. For a picnic or potluck, complement it with crusty bread or pita chips to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for an eye-catching appetizer. You can also scoop it onto fresh lettuce leaves to create light, handheld salad wraps. Another fun idea is to layer it in clear jars for grab-and-go lunches with a pretty look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad holds up well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead choice for busy weeks. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, rather than frozen. Freezing can change the texture of the mayonnaise and the vegetables, so it’s not recommended for this recipe.

Reheating

Since this pasta salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Simply take it out of the fridge, let it sit for a few minutes to take the chill off if you prefer, then enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

While fresh tuna is delicious, it requires cooking and would change the nature of this salad. Canned tuna is convenient, flavorful, and perfectly suited for this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe.

Is it okay to substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that will still provide creaminess, but it will slightly change the texture and tang of the dressing. Feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes, this salad is very versatile. Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or even sweet corn for extra crunch and color.

How do I make this salad gluten-free?

Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety such as rice pasta or chickpea pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What is the best way to prevent the salad from becoming soggy?

Rinsing the cooked pasta under cold water to cool it quickly helps, as does chilling the salad before serving. Also, avoid making the salad too far in advance to maintain the freshest texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe is a true staple that’s bound to become one of your favorites. It’s light, creamy, and packed with texture and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a satisfying solo lunch, don’t hesitate to give it a whirl—you might just find it’s your new go-to recipe for effortless deliciousness!