Description
A classic Tuna Macaroni Salad combining tender elbow macaroni with flaky tuna and a creamy, tangy dressing. Fresh crunchy vegetables add texture and flavor, making this salad a perfect refreshing side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Protein
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta completely, then set aside.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the salad: Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, flaked tuna, chopped celery, red onion, pickles, and bell pepper (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold all ingredients together until everything is evenly coated without mashing the tuna.
- Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the salad chill properly.
- Serve: Serve the Tuna Macaroni Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light meal, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple lunch.
Notes
- You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
- For a healthier twist, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and reduce the sour cream by half.
- Make sure to cool the pasta completely before mixing to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best served fresh.
- Optional pickles and bell pepper add crunch and tang, but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
