Table of Contents
A simple and creamy tuna macaroni salad you can make in minutes.
introduction
This Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad is cool, creamy, and ready for lunches or picnics. For a different tuna idea with bright flavors, try the best tuna nicoise salad recipe to compare styles.
why make this recipe
- It is quick and uses pantry staples.
- It fills a crowd and travels well.
- Kids and adults both like it.
- It needs no oven and little prep.
how to make Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Cook and cool the pasta first so the salad does not get watery.
- Drain the tuna well so the salad stays creamy, not soggy.
- Mix the cooled macaroni, tuna, mayonnaise, peas, and pickles gently.
- Chill the salad so flavors blend before serving.
- If you want another tuna salad idea, see this tuna nicoise salad recipe for a firmer, vegetable-forward option.
Ingredients :
- 1 box Elbow Macaroni (cooked & cooled)
- 2 cans StarKist Tuna (drained thoroughly)
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (Hellmann’s or Best Foods)
- 1 can Sweet Peas (drained)
- 1/2 cup Dill Pickles (finely chopped)
Directions :
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, drained tuna, mayonnaise, sweet peas, and chopped dill pickles.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your classic creamy tuna macaroni salad!
how to serve Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Serve cold on a plate or in a bowl.
- Use as a side with grilled chicken or burgers.
- Make sandwiches or serve on lettuce leaves for a light meal.
- Garnish with a little extra pickle or a sprinkle of black pepper.
how to store Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Use within 3–4 days for best texture and safety.
- Stir once before serving if liquid collects on top.
tips to make Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Cool the pasta fully to keep the mayo from thinning.
- Chop pickles small so they mix well in each bite.
- Drain tuna very well to avoid excess water.
- Add a squeeze of lemon if you want a bit of brightness.
- Taste and add salt or pepper at the end.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped celery or red onion for crunch.
- Swap peas for canned corn or chopped bell pepper.
- Use Greek yogurt half-and-half with mayo for a lighter dressing.
FAQs (minimum three FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Small shells, rotini, or small bow ties work fine.
Q: Do I have to chill the salad?
A: Chilling helps the flavors blend. Serve after 30 minutes for best taste.
Q: Can I use fresh peas instead of canned?
A: Yes. Cook and cool fresh peas first before adding.
Q: Is this safe to eat the next day?
A: Yes. Keep it refrigerated and eat within 3–4 days.
Q: Can I add hard-boiled eggs?
A: Yes. Chopped hard-boiled eggs add protein and a different texture.
Classic Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad
A simple and creamy tuna macaroni salad that is cool, creamy, and ready for lunches or picnics.
Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, drained tuna, mayonnaise, sweet peas, and chopped dill pickles.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving
- Serve cold on a plate or in a bowl.
- Use as a side with grilled chicken or burgers.
- Make sandwiches or serve on lettuce leaves for a light meal.
- Garnish with a little extra pickle or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Notes
Cool the pasta fully to keep the mayo from thinning. Chop pickles small so they mix well in each bite. Drain tuna very well to avoid excess water. Add a squeeze of lemon if you want a bit of brightness. Taste and add salt or pepper at the end.
