Shells And Tuna
A quick and satisfying cold pasta salad combining tender shell macaroni with flaky tuna, crunchy celery, and sweet bell pepper, topped with fresh tomato. Perfect for a light lunch or picnic, this dish offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures that appeal to seafood lovers and salad enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shell macaroni according to package directions; rinse and drain.
- Add drained tuna, chopped hard-boiled eggs, chopped bell pepper, and chopped celery to the cooled macaroni.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste and mix well.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped ripe tomato on top.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the tuna with canned chicken or chickpeas for a different protein option. If you're looking for added flavor, try including a splash of lemon juice or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This dish is great for using up leftover vegetables too.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For an added crunch, serve with a side of potato chips or fresh vegetable sticks. You can also make it a heartier meal by adding some steamed broccoli or peas to the shell macaroni before mixing in the other ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or reheat it gently in the microwave. If reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shells And Tuna contains roughly 163 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (150% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shell macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and flavors deepen over time. Just prepare it in advance and store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding more protein or healthy fats. You could mix in some diced avocado, cooked shrimp, or even beans. For a heartier version, serve it over a bed of greens or alongside a protein-rich side like grilled chicken or a bean salad.
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).