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Tuna Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing

Tuna Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing

Olivia
Craving a tasty Tuna Pasta Salad with Creamy Dressing? This easy recipe is loaded with fresh flavor. Click now and make  it in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course main dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 318 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Base:

  • Dried pasta 4 cups. Brown rice fusilli works well, but any short pasta will do.
  • Frozen peas 1 cup. These add sweetness and color.
  • Chopped carrots 1 cup. They provide crunch and a natural sweetness.
  • Chopped celery 1 cup. Use fresh stalks for the best texture.
  • Sliced grape tomatoes 1 cup. Juicy and sweet, they brighten the dish.
  • Tuna three 4-ounce cans, drained. Choose solid tuna in olive oil or water for the best taste.

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • Plain nonfat Greek yogurt one third cup. Adds creaminess and protein.
  • Mayonnaise one third cup. Gives that rich, familiar taste.
  • Red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon. Adds tang and balances the creaminess. Lemon juice works too.
  • Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon. Brings a slight kick and depth of flavor.
  • Garlic 2 cloves, finely minced. Fresh garlic gives a stronger, better flavor than powder.
  • Dried dill 1 teaspoon. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley for a different twist.
  • Salt 1 teaspoon. Start here and adjust to taste.
  • Black pepper half a teaspoon. Adds balance and a mild heat.
  • With these simple wholesome ingredients, you’re ready to make a creamy pasta salad that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Instructions
 

Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. This keeps the pasta firm enough to hold its shape once mixed with the dressing.

Add peas before finishing the pasta

  • When the pasta has about four minutes left to cook, stir in the frozen peas. This softens them just enough while keeping their bright color and slight crunch.

Drain and cool

  • Once the pasta and peas are done, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools everything down for mixing.

Mix the main ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped carrots, celery, grape tomatoes, and drained tuna. Use a fork to gently break up the tuna into bite-sized pieces.

Make the creamy dressing

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and fully blended.

Combine pasta with the veggies and tuna

  • Add the cooled pasta and peas to the large bowl of vegetables and tuna. Then pour the creamy dressing over the top.

Stir everything together

  • Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss the salad until every piece is coated in the dressing and well combined.

Serve or chill

  • You can serve it right away or cover and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Store any leftovers

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to five days.
  • Each step builds flavor and texture, making this creamy tuna pasta salad a hit every time.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 318
  • Total Fat: 9g (12% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 22mg (7% DV)
  • Sodium: 603.2mg (26% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 39.5g (14% DV)
  • Sugars: 3.7g
  • Protein: 18g (36% DV)
  • Vitamin A: 18% DV
  • Vitamin C: 8% DV