Cool Tuna Salad
A creamy, tangy tuna salad featuring tender pasta, mixed vegetables, and a flavorful dressing of celery soup, mayonnaise, vinegar, and onion powder. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it’s a satisfying dish that combines comfort with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, vinegar, and onion powder in a large bowl.
- Toss the cooked pasta, thawed mixed vegetables, and drained tuna together with the soup mixture until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add diced celery or bell peppers for added crunch. If you don’t have rotini, any pasta shape works well, but ensure it’s cooked al dente to hold up in the salad. This tuna salad is versatile and can be served in lettuce cups or on whole grain bread for a sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cool Tuna Salad chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra flavor kick. It pairs beautifully with a side of crunchy chips or a light green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Baked Tuna Sandwiches for a delightful lunch combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If the pasta absorbs too much moisture, add a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of vinegar when serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the tuna and vegetables may change when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cool Tuna Salad contains roughly 1678 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 162g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (159% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?
Yes, canned chicken can be used as a substitute for tuna in this recipe. It will provide a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative if you prefer chicken or if you have dietary restrictions regarding seafood.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or diced hard-boiled eggs. You could also increase the amount of pasta or mixed vegetables to add bulk, making it a more substantial meal.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this Cool Tuna Salad gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties, which are widely available. Additionally, check the soup and mayonnaise labels to ensure they do not contain gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).