Nanna Salad
A creamy, flavorful tuna pasta salad with cheddar, peas, and a tangy slaw dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or picnic, appealing to those who enjoy savory, chilled salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cooked shell macaroni, diced Cheddar cheese, chopped hard-cooked egg, chopped onion, drained and flaked tuna, canned peas, dill weed (if using), and pickle relish.
- Add Marzetti slaw dressing and mix well to combine.
- Chill to blend flavors. Stir before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more Marzetti slaw dressing or even a dollop of mayonnaise. You can substitute the tuna with shredded chicken or even imitation crab for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be added for extra freshness, and feel free to adjust the amount of dill weed to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nanna Salad chilled as a refreshing lunch or side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches for a complete meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad. This dish is also a great addition to potlucks and picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. If you want to reheat it, gently warm it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat as it can alter the texture of the macaroni.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanna Salad contains roughly 531 calories, with 21g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (81% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 804mg per serving (35% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, Nanna Salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I substitute for the shell macaroni?
If you prefer a different pasta, small shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini work well. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture in the salad.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the tuna and hard-cooked egg. Consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor. You can also incorporate chickpeas for protein.
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).