What comes to your mind when you think about a refreshing salad that fills you up without weighing you down? Yes, Tuna Macaroni Salad it is! This yummylicious salad is the perfect blend of hearty macaroni, chunks of fresh tuna, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing – all tickling your taste buds in the right place. Whether it’s a busy weekday lunch, picnic basket, barbecue side dish, or any get-together, this dish never fails to impress.
Why will y’all love this salad? It’s easy-to-make, deliciously creamy, and customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs. Plus, it’s a great source of protein and fiber. Bravo!
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 Minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Yield: 6 Cups
Alright food lovers, let���s dive straight into the recipe!
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (around 5oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Equipment: Strainer, Mixing bowl, Spoon
The key ingredient here is high quality canned tuna – it’s the star of the show that adds protein and a hit of flavor to our salad. The elbow macaroni gives our dish its body, while veggies like celery and onion provide that much-needed crunch and freshness. The combo of mayo and mustard create a tangy, creamy base.
Just remember folks, you can always swap white onion for red, or greek yogurt in place of mayo for a lower fat version.
How To Make Tuna Macaroni Salad
- Start by cooking macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly.
- In a large bowl, combine tuna, celery, onion, mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Once the macaroni has cooled down, add it to the mixture. Stir until everything is well-mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper. Remember – customization is key, babes!
- And ta-da! Your salad���s ready. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least an hour for a chilled version.
Tips For The Best Results
- Do not overcook the macaroni.
- Chill the salad in the fridge before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge.
- The mixed salad can be kept fresh for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotini instead of elbow macaroni?
A: Certainly! Any small pasta shape can work.
Q: I don’t have canned tuna, can I use fresh ones?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it properly first.
Q: Any alternatives for the mustard?
A: You can go for Dijon mustard or vinegar. These give a similar tangy taste.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Replace tuna with chickpeas and use vegan mayo instead!
Q: How long will this salad last in the fridge?
A: It���s good for about 3 days when stored properly.
Nutritional Facts of Tuna Macaroni Salad
Each serving (1/6th of the recipe) will provide approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 20g carbs, 2g fiber, 5g sugar, and 9g protein.
That’s a wrap, folks! Tuna Macaroni Salad is a delish crowd-pleaser. It’s super versatile so feel free to switch it up with your fav ingredients. Remember, there’s room for creativity in every kitchen. Serve it chilled or at room temperature – this salad���s a win-win. Ready, set, cook!
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