Tuna Salad Cones
Creamy tuna salad served in crispy ice cream cones, combined with macaroni, peas, and cheese for a fun and portable meal perfect for picnics or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni to desired doneness; drain and rinse in cool water.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, salad dressing, thawed peas, shredded cheese, drained tuna, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
- Spoon the chilled tuna salad into flat-bottomed ice cream cones and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped celery or bell peppers to the tuna salad. You can substitute the macaroni rings with any small pasta shape you have on hand, such as elbows or shells. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace the salad dressing, providing creaminess with fewer calories. This dish is easy to modify, so feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tuna salad cones as a fun and portable appetizer at parties or picnics. They pair beautifully with a side salad or fresh fruit for a light meal. For a seafood-themed gathering, consider offering them alongside dishes like Crab-Stuffed Avocados or Lolly'S Shrimp Salad, creating a delightful spread that showcases various flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the ice cream cones from becoming soggy, fill them just before serving. If you have extra salad, it can be enjoyed on its own or served with crackers for a quick snack. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Salad Cones contains roughly 177 calories, with 11g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1385mg per serving (60% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. However, fill the ice cream cones right before serving to maintain their crispiness. This allows you to enjoy the best texture and flavor when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of tuna?
If you're looking for a substitute, canned chicken or chickpeas work well in this recipe. Both provide a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the dressing. For a vegetarian option, try using a mix of diced vegetables and beans, enhancing the dish with your favorite seasonings.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free tuna salad cones, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular macaroni. Additionally, ensure that the salad dressing you choose is gluten-free, as some brands contain hidden gluten. This way, you can enjoy this dish safely while adhering to a gluten-free diet.
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).