Tuna macaroni salad is one of those timeless comfort foods that combines simplicity with flavor. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or quick weekday meals, it’s a dish that manages to feel both familiar and satisfying. Creamy, tangy, and packed with texture, it’s a recipe that generations of families have embraced.
At its core, tuna macaroni salad is about balance: the hearty bite of pasta, the creaminess of mayo, the briny flavor of tuna, and the crunch of fresh vegetables. Together, they create a dish that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit almost any occasion.
Making tuna macaroni salad at home is straightforward, requiring only basic ingredients and little preparation time. It’s a dish that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort, making it a go-to for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.
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How to Eat
Tuna macaroni salad is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. For optimal taste, let it rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings.
The salad can be eaten on its own as a light lunch or dinner, offering both protein and carbs in one bowl. It’s filling without being overly heavy, which makes it perfect for warm-weather meals.
It also works beautifully as a side dish. Pair it with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or sandwiches to create a balanced spread that pleases a crowd. Its creamy tang cuts through richer flavors, creating contrast on the plate.
How to Partner
Pair tuna macaroni salad with crisp, refreshing drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water. For something a little more elevated, a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully.
On the side, serve light accompaniments that don’t compete with the creaminess of the salad. Fresh fruit salad, pickles, or a green side salad all provide refreshing contrast.
For heartier meals, partner it with grilled chicken, burgers, or barbecue ribs. Its cool, creamy texture balances smoky, savory mains in a way that feels effortless and comforting.
One controversy with tuna macaroni salad is the mayonnaise debate. Some prefer it extra creamy with plenty of mayo, while others insist on a lighter hand—or even substitutes like Greek yogurt. This divide has sparked endless kitchen debates about what makes the “best” version.
Another point of contention is add-ins. Traditionalists stick to simple tuna, macaroni, and mayo, while others add peas, pickles, celery, or even hard-boiled eggs. Critics argue that too many extras ruin the dish’s simplicity, while fans of variety see them as essential upgrades.
Finally, the tuna itself sparks debate. Some swear by canned tuna in oil for richer flavor, while others prefer tuna in water for a lighter result. This small detail often becomes a big factor in determining personal preference and perceived authenticity.
How to Make Tuna Macaroni Salad
Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe Ingredients
1 1/2 cups dry elbow macaroni
1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
1 cup celery, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
2 hard-boiled eggs
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Paprika (for garnish, optional)
Fresh parsley
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Step By Step How to Make Tuna Macaroni Salad
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked tuna, chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish. If using, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs.
Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine
Add the cooled macaroni to the tuna mixture. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently until all the ingredients are well coated.
Chill
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Serve
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley for garnish.
Tips To Make Tuna Macaroni Salad
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or bow ties. Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or capers according to your taste.
Adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to how creamy you like your salad. You can also use a combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How Many Calories Has A Tuna Macaroni Salad
Elbow Macaroni (1 1/2 cups dry): Typically, 1 cup of cooked elbow macaroni has about 200 calories, so 1 1/2 cups dry, which makes about 3 cups cooked, would be approximately 600 calories.
Tuna (12 oz can): A 12-ounce can of tuna in water, drained, has about 330 calories.
Celery (1 cup chopped): About 16 calories.
Red Onion (1/2 cup chopped): Approximately 32 calories.
Sweet Pickle Relish (1/2 cup): Roughly 200 calories.
Hard-Boiled Eggs (2 eggs): About 140 calories per egg, totaling 280 calories.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): About 1440 calories.
Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons): Roughly 30 calories.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Around 4 calories.
Total Caloric Content Calculation:
Macaroni: 600 calories
Tuna: 330 calories
Celery: 16 calories
Onion: 32 calories
Relish: 200 calories
Eggs: 280 calories
Mayonnaise: 1440 calories
Mustard: 30 calories
Lemon Juice: 4 calories
A full tuna macaroni salad is around 2932 calories and if you serve for 6 people, each serving would be around 488 calories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tuna macaroni salad in a large chilled bowl for gatherings, making it easy for guests to help themselves. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add color and freshness.
For individual servings, present it in smaller bowls or mason jars, especially for picnics or packed lunches. This makes it portable and visually appealing.
If you’re entertaining, consider serving it alongside a spread of cold salads—like coleslaw, potato salad, or pasta primavera—for a colorful and varied buffet that highlights summer flavors.
Final Thoughts
Tuna macaroni salad is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Its creamy, tangy balance of flavors has made it a staple for generations, and its versatility ensures it fits almost any table.
The debates about mayo, add-ins, and tuna type only add to its charm, proving that even the simplest dishes inspire passionate preferences. At its core, though, it remains about bringing people together with food that feels familiar and satisfying.
Ultimately, making tuna macaroni salad at home gives you full control. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with your own twist, it’s a dish that’s always comforting, always versatile, and always welcome at the table.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.