There’s a Tuna Party Going On!
Ever sifted through your pantry and found a can of tuna just waiting to shine? Let me introduce you to Easy Tuna Pasta Salad, a delicious medley of flavors that’s sure to tickle your taste buds! This dish is a creamy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for quick lunches or easy family dinners. Plus, it comes together in a flash, making it one of those crowd-pleasing recipes you’ll want to whip up over and over again.
Why Make This Recipe
This tuna pasta salad is just plain wonderful. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick Cleanup: Who has time to scrub pots and pans? This dish uses just one bowl for prep—can I get a high five? ✋
- Affordable Ingredients: You can make this salad without breaking the bank. A few staples from your pantry do the trick!
- Family Friendly: Kids love it, and the flavors play nicely together, making mealtime stress-free.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 ounces dry protein pasta
- 2 (5-ounce) cans albacore tuna in water
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can Cannellini beans, drained
- 4 large hard-boiled eggs
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup whole milk cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-4 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Directions
Ready to dive in? Follow these easy steps:
Make the sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and desired salt until smooth and creamy.
Cook the pasta: Prepare the protein pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool for just a bit.
Assemble the salad: In the same bowl with the sauce, add the drained tuna, Cannellini beans, chopped hard-boiled eggs, sliced scallions, and frozen peas. Toss in the cooled pasta and gently stir until everything’s well coated. Serve it chilled!
How to Make Easy Tuna Pasta Salad (Overview)
Making this salad is as simple as it sounds. Start by whipping up a creamy sauce in a bowl, and while your pasta is bubbling away, you can multitask! Once cooked, toss everything in together for a salad that hits all the right spots.
- Pro Tip: Let your pasta cool before mixing; you don’t want a mushy mess!
How to Serve Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
Dishing up your tuna pasta salad? Here are some fun ideas:
- Serve it in a big bowl, garnish with a sprinkle of extra dill, and watch everyone dig in!
- Pair it with crisp lettuce or a side of buttery garlic bread for a complete meal experience. Just imagine the crunchy greens mingling with the creamy salad. Yum!
How to Store Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a great make-ahead option! Store it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. If you want to meal prep, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for that super-fresh taste.
Tips to Make Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
Here are a few handy insider tricks:
- Swap Pastas: Use chickpea or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Flavors on Fleek: Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick.
- Textural Heaven: For extra crunch, toss in some celery or bell peppers!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun twists:
- Vegan Option: Swap the tuna for chickpeas and use a tofu-based mayo!
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Herb Garden: Try fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cannellini beans?
Black beans or chickpeas work really well too!
Can I freeze Tuna Pasta Salad?
Not really! The texture of the ingredients will change, but it will last in the fridge for a few days.
Now you’re all set to make this flavorful and satisfying Easy Tuna Pasta Salad. Enjoy and happy cooking!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and desired salt until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the protein pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool for just a bit.
- In the same bowl with the sauce, add the drained tuna, Cannellini beans, chopped hard-boiled eggs, sliced scallions, and frozen peas.
- Toss in the cooled pasta and gently stir until everything’s well coated.
- Serve it chilled!