Packed with seaside-inspired flavors, Seacoast Salad Tuna Macaroni is the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion. This creamy and refreshing pasta salad combines tender elbow macaroni, protein-rich chunks of flaked tuna, and crisp veggies like celery, red bell pepper, and peas for a satisfying crunch in every bite. A tangy blend of mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, and a splash of lemon juice ties it all together, while fresh parsley adds a touch of herby brightness. Perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt and pepper, this quick and easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and can be made ahead for busy days. Serve it chilled as a hearty main or a crowd-pleasing side dish at your next picnic or potluck. Keywords: tuna macaroni salad, creamy pasta salad, easy tuna recipes, summer side dish, meal prep pasta salad.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
While the macaroni cooks, drain the canned tuna and use a fork to flake it into smaller pieces in a large mixing bowl.
Add the mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, thawed peas, dill pickle relish, and lemon juice to the bowl with the tuna. Stir until well combined.
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, then gently mix in the cooked and cooled macaroni until evenly coated.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
Before serving, stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve chilled as a side or a light main dish. Enjoy!
Calories |
3133 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 180.5 g | 231% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.8 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 325 mg | 108% | |
| Sodium | 2757 mg | 120% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 257.2 g | 94% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.8 g | 96% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.2 g | ||
| Protein | 116.2 g | 232% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.9 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 207 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 14.5 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 2145 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.