Summer Tuna Salad
A light and flavorful summer tuna salad combining tender pasta shells, tender peas, and flaky tuna, all coated in a zesty lemon-dill mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners, this dish offers fresh, creamy, and savory flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked shells with olive oil, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, salt, pepper, green onion, and mayonnaise.
- Mix 2 teaspoons lemon juice and dried dill with the drained tuna.
- Add the seasoned tuna to the shell mixture.
- Add cooked peas and gently mix everything together.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter salad, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the canned tuna with cooked chicken or chickpeas for a different protein option. Adding diced celery or bell peppers can enhance the crunch. If you prefer a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor. This salad is perfect for summer picnics or paired with grilled meats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Summer Tuna Salad chilled, garnished with extra green onions or dill for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled fish or alongside dishes like Tuna Cracker Dip for a delightful seafood-themed gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad thickens, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more lemon juice to loosen it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the pasta and mayonnaise may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Tuna Salad contains roughly 430 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (103% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1993mg per serving (87% 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, the Summer Tuna Salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir gently before serving to recombine any settled ingredients.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess while cutting down on calories. Alternatively, avocado can be mashed and used for a unique twist.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The Summer Tuna Salad can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells or elbows. Always check the labels of the ingredients used to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially the mayonnaise.
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).