Tuna Pasta (Cold)
Try this Tuna Pasta (Cold) recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Tuna Pasta (Cold) recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 package (24 oz) large elbow macaroni
- 2 packages (12 oz) frozen peas
- 2-3 cans albacore tuna (start with 2 and see how you like i i use 3 when i make a large batch)
- 1/2 to 1 large yellow onion chopped (we usually use 1 whole onion!)
- 4 tablespoons miracle whip
- 2 - 2 1/2 cups mayonnaise (depends on how moist you want it start with less and add more as you go)
- Carbohydrate 10.2799641588759 g
- Cholesterol 16.6399999859334 mg
- Fat 18.4075183232703 g
- Fiber 0.499041667566239 g
- Protein 0.563762499675385 g
- Saturated Fat 2.76270433176436 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (72g)
- Sodium 526.291332889152 mg
- Sugar 9.78092249130968 g
- Trans Fat 10.2249643248393 g
- Calories 209 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring water and oil to a boil.
- Add noodles and cook per package directions.
- In a separate pan add your peas to boiling water and cook per package directions, about 5-7 minutes.
- When the noodles and peas are finished put both in a large strainer and run cold water over it for 1-2 minutes. This will help cool the noodles quickly so they don't get mushy and stick together.
- Once you're done running the water over them shake the strainer to remove excess water and place noodles and peas in a large bowl.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place noodles and peas in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until cold to the touch.
- When the noodles are cold start preparing your remaining ingredients.
- Chop your onion into small pieces and set aside.
- Open and drain water out of albacore tuna. Place on plate and cut into small bite-sized pieces.
- Add tuna, onions, mayonnaise, miracle whip, salt and pepper into bowl with noodles and peas.
- Stir all ingredients together and taste. Add more salt/pepper if needed.
- Serve and enjoy!
My Go-To Cold Tuna Pasta: A Busy Mom's Delight
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick, easy, and delicious meals is a constant quest. This cold tuna pasta salad is my absolute lifesaver. It's perfect for a hot summer day, a quick lunch, or even a light dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and adaptable to whatever I have on hand. I often whip this up on Sunday to have a ready-made lunch for the week. Forget those sad desk lunches! This recipe is refreshing, satisfying, and surprisingly elegant, proving that convenience doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s essentially a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Love extra veggies? Throw in some chopped bell peppers, celery, or even some shredded carrots. Want a spicier kick? A dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños would do the trick. Maybe you're feeling fancy? Add some Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are truly endless. This isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure, tailored to your taste and available time.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Speed and Efficiency: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, excluding chilling time. That's a huge win on busy weeknights. The prep is minimal, and the cooking time for the pasta and peas is straightforward.
Delicious and Refreshing: This salad is incredibly satisfying without being heavy. The cold pasta and creamy dressing provide a cool and refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Cost-Effective: The ingredients are readily available and budget-friendly, making this a great choice for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
Customizable: As I mentioned before, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily tailor it to your preferences and what you have available. Add different vegetables, spices, or even different types of pasta.
Tips and Tricks for Perfection
Cooling the Pasta: Rinsing the cooked pasta under cold water is crucial for preventing it from sticking together and becoming mushy. It also ensures that the salad stays refreshingly cool.
Tuna Selection: I personally prefer albacore tuna because of its slightly firmer texture. But any canned tuna works in this recipe.
Mayonnaise Magic: The amount of mayonnaise you use can drastically alter the consistency and flavor of the salad. Start with less and add more to achieve your preferred creaminess.
Onion Power: I love using a whole large onion, but you can adjust this to your preference. If you're not a huge fan of onion, you can always use a smaller amount.
Make it Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch at the beginning of the week to enjoy throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
This cold tuna pasta is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can also serve it as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal.
I often serve this with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad for extra freshness. It's also a great addition to a picnic or potluck gathering.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for extra nutrients and color.
Italian Inspiration: Incorporate some chopped fresh basil or oregano for a burst of Italian flavor.
Creamy Dreamy: For an extra creamy version, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this cold tuna pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple recipe with endless possibilities, perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend meals. So grab your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this amazing recipe! You'll be surprised how much your family will love it.
