Shell Salad
A creamy pasta salad with sweet peas, onions, and a tangy Miracle Whip dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar and water for 1 minute.
- Cool and blend into Miracle Whip to make the dressing.
- Cook pasta shells until tender.
- Rinse the cooked shells well with cold water.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked shells, thawed peas, diced onion, and tuna.
- Toss lightly to mix.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss well.
- Serve immediately or let set for 3 hours or overnight to absorb flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a lighter option, swap Miracle Whip for a vegan mayonnaise. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor. Ensure your pasta is al dente to maintain texture when mixed with the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Shell Salad chilled for a refreshing dish. It pairs well with grilled meats like Broiled Lemon Chicken or as a side to Southern Fried Potatoes. For a balanced meal, consider adding a light green salad or some crusty bread on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it taste even better the next day. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a splash of water or extra dressing before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shell Salad contains roughly 258 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight to let the flavors develop. However, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming too soggy.
What can I substitute for peas in this recipe?
If you're not a fan of peas, you can replace them with diced bell peppers or chopped celery for a crunchy texture. Alternatively, try using corn for a sweet pop of flavor. Both options will add a different but delightful element to the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this Shell Salad vegan, simply replace Miracle Whip with a vegan mayonnaise and omit any non-vegan ingredients. This makes it a perfect addition to vegan recipes and ensures everyone at the table can enjoy it.
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).