Simple tuna macaroni salad

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Before diving into the recipe, let’s chat briefly about some delightful food pairings. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, does wonders. Pair it with freshly baked bread slathered in butter or some vibrant sautéed vegetables.

How about grilled chicken? It’s tender and juicy, complementing the salad perfectly. For a hint of sweetness, fresh fruit or a light fruit salad on the side will break the savory notes. There, your dinner plans are already looking good!

If you’re in need of a meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious, then stay put. I’m about to walk you through the making of Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad—your new favorite dish. With its creamy, tangy taste, it’s a hit at family gatherings or BBQ parties.

But first, let me introduce myself. I’m a registered dietitian, recipe writer, and food blogger, passionate about sharing easy and healthy recipes. My goal is to help you whip up tasty meals without breaking a sweat—or the bank!

What is Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad?

Imagine a comforting, crowd-pleaser dish that’s quick to make and requires simple ingredients. Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad ticks all these boxes. It’s a fusion of cooked elbow macaroni, tuna, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh veggies mixed with a touch of apple cider vinegar and dill. This cold salad offers heartiness and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad?

There’s a laundry list of reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this salad. The balance of textures—al dente macaroni, tender tuna, crisp celery, and creamy dressing—is heavenly. The flavor? Out of this world. Thanks to the dill and apple cider vinegar, there’s a slight tang that keeps you coming back for more.

Plus, from prepping to serving, it takes less than 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights or sudden potluck invitations. It’s also incredibly versatile—swap ingredients based on what you have or like.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of preparation, let’s gather our essentials:

16 ounces elbow macaroni: Cooked until al dente and cooled.
1-2 cans of tuna packed in water: Thoroughly drained.
1 cup creamy mayonnaise: The base of our dressing.
4 stalks of celery: Finely chopped for that crunch.
½ small to medium onion: Minced, adding a subtle sharpness.
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill: For that fresh, earthy flavor.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a slight tang.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Adjustable to your taste.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adjustable to your taste.

Directions

Alright, ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s the step-by-step guide to make this delightful salad:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by preparing the elbow macaroni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

While the macaroni cools, chop the celery and onion finely. Drain the tuna thoroughly to avoid any excess water diluting the salad. Finely chop the fresh dill.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the creamy mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Add the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk them together until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In the bowl with the dressing, add the cooled macaroni. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Add the tuna, celery, onion, and dill. Stir gently but thoroughly to mix everything uniformly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give it one last gentle stir.

Notes

A few handy tips to elevate your salad game:

Use Al Dente Pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy when mixed with the dressing.
Quality Tuna Matters: Opt for a good brand; the flavor difference is noticeable.
Add Veggies Last: This helps keep them crisp and vibrant.
Tweak the Dressing: If too thick, a splash of milk or an extra bit of vinegar can adjust the consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Storage Tips

Storing the salad is as easy as pie. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days. However, avoid freezing; the mayonnaise will separate and the texture won’t be pleasant.

Nutrition Information

Serving Suggestions

Variety is the spice of life! Here are five stellar serving suggestions:

Grilled Meat: Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, leafy salad balances the creaminess perfectly.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal veggies roasted with a bit of olive oil and seasoning.
Crackers: Perfect for scooping up the salad in a picnic setting.
Fruit Salad: A sweet counterpoint with fruits like melon, berries, or citrus.

What Other Substitute Can I Use in Simple Tuna Macaroni Salad?

Feel like switching things up? No worries!

Greek Yogurt: Swap out mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier touch.
Chicken: Grilled or boiled chicken chunks as a protein swap.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: A tangy, lower-calorie substitute for mayonnaise.
Pickles: For extra crunch and zest, pickles can be a game-changer.

Sarah Brown

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Chilling time 1

Total Time 1 20

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 401 kcal

Equipment

Large pot
Large bowl
Whisk

Ingredients

16 ounces elbow macaroni cooked until al dente and cooled
1-2 cans of tuna packed in water thoroughly drained
1 cup creamy mayonnaise
4 stalks of celery finely chopped
½ small to medium onion finely minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust according to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adjust according to taste