Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Description
If you’ve ever wondered who brought the famous tuna macaroni salad to the gathering, chances are it’s me! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, loved by both the young and the old. Whether it’s summer or winter, served hot or cold (though I recommend omitting the cucumber if serving hot), this dish never fails to impress. It’s simple, inexpensive, and comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for lunch or snacks. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Canned Tuna | 1 can |
| Sweet Onion | 1 small, finely chopped |
| Green Onion | 1, sliced |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped |
| Cucumber | 1/2, peeled and diced (optional for hot version) |
| Green Pepper | 1/2, diced |
| Fresh Parsley | 3-4 sprigs, chopped |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Celery Seed | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 237.5 kcal |
| Fat | 10.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 29.9 mg |
| Sodium | 508.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 26.7 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugar | 7.2 g |
| Protein | 10.2 g |
Instructions
-
Cook the Macaroni:
- Begin by boiling 3 cups of water in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, add the macaroni and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
-
Prepare the Macaroni Salad Base:
- After draining the macaroni, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/2 cup of milk to the hot pasta. Stir well until the butter is melted and everything is combined smoothly.
-
Add the Cheese:
- If your macaroni comes with a cheese packet, mix that into the macaroni and milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully incorporated.
-
Let It Cool:
- Allow the macaroni mixture to cool completely at room temperature before proceeding. This step helps prevent wilting the fresh ingredients added later.
-
Prepare the Veggies:
- While the macaroni is cooling, chop the sweet onion, green onion, celery, cucumber (if using), green pepper, and fresh parsley. These will add both flavor and crunch to the salad.
-
Mix the Ingredients:
- Once the macaroni has cooled, add the prepared vegetables, canned tuna (drained), and the following seasonings: mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, celery seed, salt, and mustard powder.
-
Combine and Chill:
- Stir everything together, making sure the ingredients are well coated with the creamy mayonnaise dressing. Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting time helps the flavors meld and gives the salad its signature taste.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- After chilling, give the salad one last stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it cold for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any gathering!
Tips and Variations
- Serving Hot: If you prefer the salad hot, you can omit the cucumber and serve it immediately after mixing, but it’s traditionally served chilled for the best flavor.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even carrots based on your preference.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made up to a day in advance, making it perfect for busy days when you need a simple dish to take to a potluck or family dinner.
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein boost, you can add hard-boiled eggs or shredded chicken to the mix.
Final Thoughts
This Tuna Macaroni Salad is a timeless recipe that’s both easy to make and delicious. With its creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and tender pasta, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or as a light lunch or snack, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Give it a try and enjoy this classic comfort food with your loved ones!
