Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious recipe to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further! Tuna pasta salads are a classic combination that never goes out of style. And when you add a rich and creamy sauce to the mix, it’s a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different creamy tuna pasta salad recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic combinations to international twists, these recipes showcase the versatility of tuna and pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot. So grab a fork and get ready to dive into the creamy world of tuna pasta salads!
Classic Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
Classic Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
This creamy tuna pasta salad is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With the combination of cooked pasta, canned tuna, and a tangy cream dressing, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 (5 oz.) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and toss until coated.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your pasta salad with this refreshing recipe. Combining the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, tanginess of feta cheese, and freshness of parsley, this tuna pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until combined.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Tuna Pasta Salad
This spicy and savory pasta salad is a twist on the classic tuna salad, featuring the bold flavors of sriracha sauce and the creaminess of mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, and Sriracha sauce. Mix well until combined.
3. Add chopped bell pepper and cucumber to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tuna mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the protein-packed punch of tuna. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, avocado, lime juice, and cilantro.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Greek yogurt-based recipe combines the creamy richness of tuna with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of chopped veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked tuna, Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped cucumber. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Tuna Pasta Salad
This Pesto Tuna Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the creaminess of pesto sauce with the sweetness of tuna and pasta. It’s an easy and quick recipe ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Add the flaked tuna and cooked pasta to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Dill Tuna Pasta Salad
Lemon Dill Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful pasta salad, featuring succulent tuna, tangy lemon, and the subtle zest of dill.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add flaked tuna to the bowl and stir gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta, chopped dill, and crumbled feta (if using) to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tuna Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory twist on classic tuna pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and fresh pasta for a satisfying side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in water
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tuna, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the tuna mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Tuna Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing pasta salad perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, bell peppers, onion, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until pasta is well coated with the tuna mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Sesame Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the comfort of pasta, featuring tuna, sesame seeds, and a hint of soy sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
– 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp. of sesame oil
– 2 tbsp. of soy sauce
– 1 tsp. of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
3. Add flaked tuna, chopped scallions, and toasted sesame seeds to the bowl; toss gently.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tuna mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caprese Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of tuna pasta. A perfect blend of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and savory tuna on a bed of linguine.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, diced tomatoes, and sliced mozzarella cheese.
3. Add cooked linguine pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creamy heat of buffalo sauce with the richness of tuna, all wrapped up in a convenient and delicious package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, buffalo sauce, mayonnaise, and parsley. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and toss until coated.
4. Fold in cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and tuna for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and white wine vinegar. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the tuna mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Pasta Salad
A classic combination of pasta, tuna, and cheese, this salad is a quick and easy meal perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber slices
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and grated cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of fresh herbs with tuna and pasta, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp. dried dill weed
– 1 tsp. lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, dill weed, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the flaked tuna to the bowl and stir to combine with the herb mixture.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top (if using).
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking pasta) + chilling time
Olive and Feta Tuna Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of pasta and canned tuna. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s also a great option for potlucks or picnics.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Tuna Pasta Salad
Add some excitement to your pasta salad game with this Jalapeño Cheddar Tuna Pasta Salad recipe, featuring the perfect balance of creamy and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of diced jalapeño peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cilantro, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños.
3. Add olive oil and lemon juice; toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Curry Tuna Pasta Salad
This creamy and flavorful pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the added spice of curry powder, it’s a great twist on traditional tuna pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of curry powder
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, curry powder, mayonnaise, and parsley. Mix well until combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
4. Fold in the cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a cold salad recipe. Preparation time: approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of tuna pasta salad with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic to Mediterranean-inspired, spicy to refreshing, and everything in between, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how to elevate canned tuna with flavorful combinations like sriracha and avocado, Greek yogurt and dill, or pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting creamy treat or a light and zesty snack, these recipes will guide you through a world of delicious possibilities.
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