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Creamy Dill Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.7 from 120 reviews

This Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad with Dill is a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, flavorful lunch. Featuring tender seashell pasta tossed with protein-rich tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, creamy dill dressing, this salad combines textures and flavors beautifully. Enhanced with optional add-ins like Dijon mustard and chopped pickles, it’s customizable to your taste and sure to please seafood and salad lovers alike.

Ingredients

Salad Base:

  • 32 oz (2 lbs) small seashell pasta (or elbow macaroni)
  • 4 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1 cup chopped onion (optional)
  • 1 cup chopped celery (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)

Creamy Dressing:

  • 3 cups mayonnaise
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 tbsp pickle juice (or 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice)
  • 4 tsp dried dill weed (or 4 tbsp fresh dill, chopped)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a tangy twist)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for freshness)
  • ½ cup chopped dill pickles (for extra crunch)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely before proceeding.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, pickle juice, dill weed, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as desired by adding more dill or pickle juice for extra flavor.
  3. Combine Everything: Add the cooled pasta, drained tuna, and any optional add-ins such as chopped onion, celery, and thawed peas to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, stir the salad again; if the dressing has thickened too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it to desired consistency.

Notes

  • Use fresh dill if available for a brighter flavor, substituting 4 tablespoons fresh dill for 4 teaspoons dried.
  • Adding Dijon mustard gives the salad a delightful tang but is optional.
  • Ensure to rinse and cool the pasta completely to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
  • The salad tastes best after chilling but can be served immediately if needed.
  • Variations: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light mayo for a healthier option.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/creamy-dill-tuna-pasta-salad-recipe/