Tuna Pasta Salad
A classic, creamy tuna pasta salad made with whole-wheat pasta, sweet peas, and crunchy celery. It's a perfect, protein-packed lunch that's ready in under 30 minutes and hits all the right comfort food notes.
For 4 servings
Cook the pasta and peas.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- In the last minute of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot.
- Drain the pasta and peas, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
TIPRinsing the pasta with cold water is key to preventing a gummy texture in your salad.Prepare the vegetables and tuna.
While the pasta is cooking, finely dice the celery and red onion. Open and drain the tuna cans thoroughly.
Whisk together the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the juice of one lemon, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Combine all ingredients.
- Add the cooled pasta and peas to the bowl with the dressing.
- Add the drained tuna, diced celery, and red onion.
- Gently fold everything together until the pasta and other ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
TIPBe gentle when mixing to keep the tuna in flakes rather than turning it into a paste.Chill the salad.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step makes a big difference!
Serve and enjoy.
Give the salad a final stir before serving. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- 2Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the salad.
- 3If the salad seems a bit dry after chilling, you can stir in an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk.
- 4Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a lighter version, replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This will lower the fat content and add extra protein.
dairy freeDairy free
Use a certified dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise made from avocado oil or soy to make this recipe dairy-free.
high proteinHigh protein
Add a can of drained chickpeas or some chopped hard-boiled eggs to boost the protein content even further.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use a fun pasta shape like shells or bowties and dice the vegetables very finely to make it more appealing for children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Tuna is a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Tuna provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health and brain function.
Complex Carbohydrates for Energy
The whole-wheat pasta offers complex carbohydrates and fiber, providing sustained energy and promoting digestive health.
Vitamins and Minerals
Celery, onions, and peas contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be a very healthy and balanced meal. This version uses whole-wheat pasta for complex carbs and fiber, and tuna provides a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The vegetables add vitamins and crunch.