Tuna Pasta Salad is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort, freshness, and a touch of nostalgia to every bite. At Recipeslace, we believe healthy food should never be boring, so this version balances creamy, zesty flavour with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about.
Inspired by sunny picnics and quick weeknight meals, this easy salad comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s light enough for lunch yet filling enough for dinner, and it’s easily adapted into a Healthy Tuna Salad Recipe or even a Tuna Salad No Mayo version.
I first made this recipe for a family gathering, and it quickly became a staple, simple, satisfying, and always crowd-approved. Updated & Retested: October 2025.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Tuna Pasta Salad is a creamy, protein-packed cold pasta dish made with tender noodles, flaked tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for meal prep, picnics, or healthy weeknight meals.
What Is Tuna Pasta Salad?
Tuna Pasta Salad is a chilled, creamy salad made by combining cooked pasta, canned tuna, crisp vegetables, and a light mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressing. It’s a staple of American comfort food—balanced, refreshing, and easy to customise.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), tuna provides lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love Tuna Pasta Salad?
- Quick & Weeknight-Friendly: Ready in just 25 minutes ideal for busy days.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Creamy, zesty, and full of texture from crisp veggies and flaky tuna.
- Pantry Ingredients: Uses simple staples pasta, tuna, and a few fridge essentials.
- Customizable & Diet-Friendly: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a Healthy Tuna Salad Recipe or use gluten-free pasta.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Tastes even better after chilling perfect for meal prep.
- Family-Approved: A wholesome dish kids and adults both love.
Ingredients (+ Substitutions)
This Tuna Pasta Salad comes together with simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have. Each element adds texture, flavor, and balance and you can easily tweak it for gluten-free, dairy-free, or lighter versions.
| Ingredient | Substitution / Diet Note |
|---|---|
| 8 oz. small pasta shells or elbow macaroni | Use gluten-free pasta or whole-wheat pasta for extra fiber |
| 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked | Substitute with canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian version |
| 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed | Swap with diced cucumber, edamame, or chopped spinach |
| 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped | Add crunch with diced bell peppers or carrots |
| 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped | Use green onions for a milder taste |
| 1 cup mayonnaise or 1/2 cup mayo + 1/2 cup Greek yogurt | For Tuna Salad No Mayo, use all Greek yogurt or avocado mash |
| 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice | Replace with pickle juice or apple cider vinegar for extra tang |
| 1 tsp yellow or Dijon mustard | Adjust to taste; adds a mild kick |
| 1/2 tsp dried dill weed (or 1 tbsp fresh) | Try parsley or chives if you don’t have dill |
| Salt and black pepper to taste | Always season after mixing flavors develop as it chills |
Equipment
You won’t need any fancy gadgets to make this Tuna Pasta Salad just a few kitchen basics. Start with a large pot to cook the pasta evenly and a colander for quick draining and rinsing. A mixing bowl helps combine ingredients without mess, while a whisk ensures a smooth, creamy dressing. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to fold the salad gently, keeping the tuna chunks intact. For storage, airtight glass containers or meal-prep bowls keep your salad fresh and chilled for days.
How to Make Tuna Pasta Salad with Healthy Tuna Salad Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Making Tuna Pasta Salad is as easy as mix, chill, and serve but a few small details make all the difference in flavor and texture.
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente.
Tip: Slightly undercook the pasta by 30 seconds it’ll stay firm after chilling.
2. Cool and combine:
Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, flaked tuna, peas, celery, and red onion.
Note: Rinsing stops the cooking and prevents a mushy texture.
3. Prepare the dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or mayo + Greek yogurt), lemon juice, mustard, and dill until smooth.
Tip: Add a teaspoon of water or milk to loosen the dressing if it’s too thick.
4. Toss the salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Note: Use a rubber spatula to keep tuna flakes intact and avoid breaking the pasta.
5. Chill and serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to blend.
Tip: For an extra creamy texture after chilling, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of mayonnaise before serving.
I’ve also shared this Tuna Pasta Salad on Pinterest with step-by-step photos and ideas.
Common Mistakes + Quick Fixes
- Dry salad: Add a splash of lemon juice or yogurt before serving.
- Overcooked pasta: Rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking.
- Flat flavour: Season again after chilling cold foods need more seasoning.
For more make-ahead recipes, try our Tuna and Egg Salad or Tuna Salad No Mayo, both pair beautifully with this dish.
Variations & Serving Ideas
One of the best things about Tuna Pasta Salad is its adaptability. With a few tweaks, you can make it fit any mood, season, or dietary goal.
Slow Cooker: Cook pasta separately, then gently warm tuna and veggies with a touch of olive oil before combining, perfect for large batches.
Oven-Baked: Transfer the mixed salad to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes for a cozy, melty twist.
Air Fryer Crunch: Air fry breadcrumbs and sprinkle them on top for texture and crunch.
Extra-Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a rich, comforting version.
Mild or Spicy: Add chopped pickles for tang or a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
Protein Boost: Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs, a nod to our Tuna and Egg Salad fans.
Serve With: Pair this salad with Olive Garden Steak Gorgonzola Alfredo for a heartier dinner, or enjoy it alongside Banana Bread Latte and No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie for a bright, balanced meal combo.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead
One reason Tuna Pasta Salad is a RecipeSalad favourite? It’s even better the next day. The flavours deepen as it chills, making it perfect for lunches, meal prep, or gatherings.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: While this salad is best served cold, you can gently warm it in the microwave for 20–30 seconds if you prefer it slightly warm. Just stir in a spoonful of mayo or yogurt afterwards to refresh the texture.
One common question is: How Long Does Tuna Salad Last in the Fridge? and we’ll cover it here
I even shared the story behind this Tuna Pasta Salad on Medium, where I talk about how it became a family favourite.
Mini Q&A
Can you freeze Tuna Pasta Salad?
Yes, for up to 2 months in airtight containers. Stir well after thawing to restore creaminess.
What’s the best way to reheat Tuna Pasta Salad?
It’s meant to be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, heat briefly and add a little dressing to revive moisture.
What is the best way to make a classic Tuna Pasta Salad?
Equipment
- Large Pot For cooking pasta evenly
- Colander To drain and rinse the pasta
- Large mixing bowl For tossing all ingredients together
- Small bowl For preparing the dressing
- Whisk To blend mayo, yogurt, and lemon juice smoothly
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon For gentle mixing without breaking the pasta
- Airtight container For chilling and storing leftovers
Ingredients
- 8 oz small pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 cup frozen green peas thawed
- ½ cup celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise or 1/2 cup mayo + 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp yellow or Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp dried dill weed or 1 tbsp fresh
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, tuna, peas, celery, and red onion.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (and yogurt, if using), lemon juice, mustard, and dill until smooth.
- Toss the Salad
- Pour dressing over the pasta mixture. Stir gently to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Stir in extra mayo or yogurt if needed before serving.
Notes
FAQs❓
What is the origin of Tuna Pasta Salad?
Tuna Pasta Salad likely originated in mid-20th-century America when canned tuna became a pantry staple. It blends Italian pasta traditions with classic American creamy salads.
What are some common additions to Tuna Pasta Salad?
Add-ins like boiled eggs, sweet pickle relish, shredded carrots, or diced bell peppers boost flavour and texture. You can even make a Chickpea Tuna Salad for a plant-based version.
How many calories are in Tuna Pasta Salad?
On average, one cup has around 320 calories, depending on your mix-ins and dressing. For a lighter version, swap mayo with Greek yogurt.
How long does Tuna Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
What do I put in a Tuna Pasta Salad?
Pasta, canned tuna, peas, celery, onion, and a creamy dressing form the base, but feel free to personalise it with your favourite herbs or spices.
What are the five mistakes to avoid when making pasta salad?
Overcooking pasta, skipping the rinse, under-seasoning, using too much mayo, or not chilling long enough before serving.
What’s the secret to a good Tuna Salad?
Balance creamy dressing, fresh crunch, a touch of acid from lemon juice, and time to chill for flavours to meld perfectly.
Nutrition (With Disclaimer)
Below are approximate nutrition values per serving (based on a 6-serving yield). Actual numbers may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin D | 2 µg |
| Calcium | 35 mg |
| Iron | 1.4 mg |
| Potassium | 240 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition values are estimates only and may vary depending on specific brands, measurements, and preparation methods. For precise dietary advice, consult a registered dietitian or refer to trusted recipes such as Classic Tuna Pasta Salad – Tastes Better From Scratch.
Recipe Cost
This Tuna Pasta Salad is budget-friendly and ideal for feeding a crowd. Using pantry staples like canned tuna, pasta, and frozen peas keeps costs low while still offering a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
Estimated Total Cost: $7–$9
Cost per Serving: About $1.25–$1.50
Prices may vary depending on the type of tuna, brand of pasta, and whether you use Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Opting for store brands or bulk tuna can lower the total cost even further.
Reviews & Reader Tips
Our readers love how easy and customizable this Tuna Pasta Salad is — perfect for family dinners, picnics, and meal prep!
⭐ 4.9 from 327 votes — “So creamy and flavorful! I swapped half the mayo for yogurt, and it was a hit at my work lunch.” – Emily J.
⭐ “Loved it with chickpeas instead of tuna turned it into a light vegetarian version!” – Sarah R.
⭐ “I added chopped eggs and used dill pickles for tang. Great make-ahead salad!” – Tom G.
Your turn!
Did you try this recipe? Share your twist or substitution in the comments below. Your ideas inspire our Recipeslace kitchen community.
Conclusion
This Tuna Pasta Salad proves that comfort food can also be light, balanced, and bursting with fresh flavour. Whether you make it with mayo or Greek yogurt, it’s a timeless favourite for lunches, picnics, or quick weeknight meals.
At Recipeslace, we love helping you bring healthy, delicious meals to the table — one tested recipe at a time. Save this recipe to your Pinterest board to keep it handy for your next gathering or meal prep session.
📌 Save This Recipe: Tuna Pasta Salad – Tuna Salad Calories
Looking for more healthy inspiration? Try our Chickpea Tuna Salad or Healthy Tuna Salad Recipe next!
