Dinner

Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Easy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or elbow macaroni); 1 can (15 ounces) tuna (drained, preferably in water or olive oil); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup cucumber (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or more mayonnaise); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

ByHarper Ellington December 28, 2025December 28, 2025

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Introduction

This easy tuna pasta salad is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Combining tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s flavorful and simple to prepare in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)
1 can (15 ounces) tuna, drained (preferably in water or olive oil)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or more mayonnaise)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and thawed peas. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add diced celery or bell peppers to the salad.
Use Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier dressing.
Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing for a subtle kick.
Try swapping tuna for cooked shredded chicken or canned salmon for different flavors.

Storage

Store the tuna pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may thicken or separate slightly when chilled. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a bowl filled with creamy rotini pasta salad, featuring thick, spiral-shaped pasta in pale yellow color evenly mixed with chunks of light pink tuna, bright green peas, and halved red cherry tomatoes. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled throughout, adding texture and freshness. The ingredients are coated lightly in a creamy white dressing with a few brown specks of seasoning on top. The white bowl is resting on a folded dark gray cloth with a silver spoon tucked inside, all sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this salad works well with any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or small shells. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.

Is it better to drain the tuna completely?

Yes, draining the tuna well helps prevent the salad from becoming too watery and keeps the flavors balanced.