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Creamy tuna pasta salad with chopped red, yellow, and green bell peppers in a colorful bowl, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
SavorAndSpice

Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad - Quick, Creamy, and Delicious

This easy and creamy tuna pasta salad recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a flavorful dressing, it’s a family favorite that’s quick to make and versatile for variations.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
chill time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups elbow or rotini pasta
  • 1 can 5 oz tuna in water, drained
  • 2 celery stalks finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • ¼ small red onion finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
  • Fresh parsley
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Olives
  • Croutons

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Cutting board & knife

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, then drain.
  2. Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy. Toss gently to cool evenly.
  3. Drain the canned tuna and flake it gently with a fork. Set aside.
  4. Finely chop celery, bell peppers, and red onion. Make sure the pieces are similar in size for even bites.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tuna, and chopped vegetables.
  6. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  7. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and fold gently until all ingredients are coated evenly.
  8. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, add optional toppings like parsley, cherry tomatoes, or olives.

Notes

  • Salad can be made a few hours or a day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • Try high-protein pasta, Greek yogurt dressing, or Mediterranean additions like olives and cherry tomatoes.
  • Serve as a main dish, side dish, or picnic favorite. Pair with grilled chicken or crusty bread.