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Tuna Pasta Salad with Mayo

A quick and creamy tuna pasta salad combining tender macaroni, flaked tuna, crisp vegetables, and a zesty mayo-based dressing, perfect for potlucks and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 can 12 ounces tuna, drained
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup celery diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon for mixing
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to cool.
  4. While the pasta cools, dice the celery and red onion.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained tuna, diced celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish; stir gently.
  6. Add the mayonnaise and lemon juice, then mix until evenly coated.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir to combine.
  8. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. For extra zest, add a splash of Dijon mustard to the dressing.