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A dish is filled with Tuna Macaroni Salad
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4.62 from 21 votes

Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe

Creamy, classic tuna macaroni salad with tender pasta, flaked tuna, eggs, and peas in a tangy mayo dressing. Make it a few hours ahead for the best flavor and serve it as a hearty side or a light main.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Cool10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, American Classic
Servings: 10 servings
Author: Kristin Maxwell

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 10-12 ounces tuna packed in water (about 2 cans) drained, add more if you like
  • 1 cup mayonnaise plus more as needed
  • 4 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1-2 teaspoons prepared mustard
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
  • 1 cup frozen peas cooked and cooled
  • 4 hard boiled eggs chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the macaroni to al dente following the package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and drain well. Cool to at least room temperature, or chill in the fridge.
  • In a large bowl, combine the tuna, celery, onion, eggs, and peas. Season with a little salt and pepper. Stir in the cooled macaroni.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the mustard, mayonnaise, and pickle relish. Add about half to the macaroni mixture and toss, then add more until creamy. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper.
  • Cover and chill until ready to serve. If the salad seems dry, stir in a couple tablespoons of mayonnaise to moisten.

Notes

  • Tuna: Water-packed albacore keeps the flavor clean and avoids the oily, metallic taste of some canned tuna.
  • Peas: Use frozen peas, thawed, rather than canned. Corn is an easy swap if you prefer.
  • Relish: Sweet relish is classic; dill relish works if you want less sweetness.
  • Make ahead: Best made a few hours ahead so the flavors meld. Cover tightly and refrigerate.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. Do not freeze.
  • If it dries out: Stir in a tablespoon or two of mayo before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 501kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 118mg | Sodium: 435mg | Potassium: 293mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 2mg

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