Chilled Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe

tuna macaroni salad in white bowl on wooden table

4.50 from 2 votes

This refreshing tuna macaroni salad recipe is packed with flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and tender pasta, all tossed in a creamy, flavorful dressing. Perfect for any occasion, it's sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Chill Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Servings people

Calories 335kcal

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow noodles
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup dill relish
1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon white granulated sugar
2 5 oz cans of tuna drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika for garnish

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red onion, green bell pepper, mayonnaise, dill relish, lemon juice, yellow mustard, and granulated sugar. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Gently stir in the drained tuna.
Add the cooled elbow noodles to the tuna mixture. Toss gently to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the dressing and the ingredients are distributed throughout.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve chilled, garnish with paprika sprinkled on top if desired.

Notes

Cook the pasta according to the directions on the back of the box. Different brands of pasta will cook at different times. Having al dente pasta is key to having a delicious pasta salad. Do not overcook the noodles.

Store the pasta salad in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition