Tuna macaroni salad is a beloved cold dish that brings together pantry staples with fresh ingredients for a quick, flavorful meal. Popular in potlucks and picnics across America, this salad features elbow macaroni, tuna, vegetables, olives, and a tangy Italian-mustard dressing. With its satisfying blend of textures and tastes, it's both hearty and refreshing. This recipe embraces the nostalgic comfort of mid-century home cooking, designed to be both easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 7 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cans tuna (6½ oz cans, drained)
- 1 tomato (medium, seeded and chopped)
- 1 yellow or green pepper (smal, chopped)
- ½ cup whole pitted olives
- ⅓ cup green onions (sliced)
- ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped )
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 1 to 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until tender.
- Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, drained tuna, chopped tomato, chopped pepper, olives, green onions, and parsley.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, Dijon mustard, salt, and lemon pepper seasoning.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
- Pour dressing over the macaroni mixture. Toss until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve chilled on lettuce leaves for a refreshing presentation.
Tips
- Substitute Greek yogurt for Italian dressing for a creamy twist
- Add boiled eggs or shredded cheese for extra protein
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version
- Mix in celery or cucumbers for added crunch
- Swap tuna with canned chicken for variation
Nutrition
Calories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 12gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 16mgSodium: 440mgPotassium: 259mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 580IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 33mgIron: 2mg
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