Discover the Joy of Cooking with Our Easy-to-Make Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna Macaroni Salad is one of my favorite salads from when I was young. I’m sure everyone has a tuna mac salad recipe, but I chose this to be my first post because it reminds me of summer. Ahh…Summer…As I sit here and the temp is hovering  just barely above and mostly below zero, it helps me get through these deep dark winter days. I have passed on this love of tuna mac salad to my daughter as well. When I was young my mom always made it with O noodles and Velveeta chunks. I think it was a law. I have varied in my noodle choice and sometimes I use shells because well, they are from the sea like the tuna, so it’s ok. I save the elbow mac for other salads. They have their place in a good mac salad, just not in tuna. But, that’s just my opinion. You are welcome to use whatever noodle you like (or love) to make it taste just the way you want. I have also moved away from the Velveeta and use cheddar chunks now. My daughter prefers it that way so that’s how it goes. Either one is fine by me.  I hope you enjoy my simple yet tasty and oh so nostalgic version of tuna mac salad. Ahh…Summer…(The high today should get to 1° above zero (Fahrenheit).

Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Dive into our delicious Tuna Macaroni Salad recipe, a perfect blend of flavors to satiate your palate. With easy-to-follow instructions and ingredients you can find in your pantry, this dish is sure to be your new favorite. Don't forget to share the taste of joy with your loved ones and subscribe to our blog for more such delightful recipes!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 people

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 16 oz box shell pasta
• 2 cans tuna
• ¼ c. diced onion
• ¼ c. sliced green olives
• ¼ c. celery
• ½ c. cubed cheddar cheese
• ¾ c. Miracle Whip (more or less to taste)
• salt&pepper

Equipment

• 1 bowl

Method

 

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water and let cool.
2. Drain tuna from the cans and put into a bowl.
3. Chop onions, green olives, and celery add to tuna.
4. Add the drained pasta to the bowl.
5. Add the Miracle Whip to the bowl and mix well.
6. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.

Video

Notes

• The Tuna Macaroni Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients based on your preference. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating a dish that you love.
• When making the Tuna Macaroni Salad, ensure to cook the macaroni until it's al dente. This will give your salad a nice texture. Also, don't forget to drain the tuna well before adding it to the salad to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• The secret to a perfect Tuna Macaroni Salad lies in its dressing. Make sure to mix the dressing well before adding it to the salad. This will ensure that every bite of your salad is packed with flavor. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips for Tuna Macaroni Salad

• Choose Your Pasta Wisely: A small, sturdy pasta like elbow macaroni or shells works best in this salad. They hold up well and their crevices catch the dressing for maximum flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the salad. Cook your pasta just until it is al dente.
• Drain Your Tuna Well: Excess liquid can make your salad soggy. Be sure to drain your tuna well before adding it to the salad.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season your salad with salt and pepper. It may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in bringing out the flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Tuna Macaroni Salad

• Sides: A crisp green salad or a platter of fresh, sliced tomatoes would balance out the creaminess of the salad. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or steak.
• Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Beverages: A cold glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea would pair nicely with the salad.
• Serving Styles: You can serve the salad as a side dish, or make it the star of the meal by serving it on a bed of lettuce or in a hollowed-out tomato.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tuna Macaroni Salad

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can. While this recipe calls for macaroni, you could also use shells, rotini, or even bow tie pasta.
• What if I don’t like tuna? No problem! You can substitute the tuna with canned chicken or even chopped hard-boiled eggs.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after it’s had some time for the flavors to meld together.
• How do I store leftovers? Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped celery, bell peppers, or even sweet pickles to add more flavor and crunch to your salad.

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