Print

Creamy Zesty Dill Pickle Tuna Pasta Salad

creamy dill pickle tuna pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A tangy, creamy pasta salad with dill pickles, tuna, and a Greek yogurt dressing. Quick to make and perfect for meal prep or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
  • 2 cans (5 ounces/140g each) solid white or light tuna, drained
  • 1 cup (150g) dill pickles, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup (60g) celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120g) plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (7-9 minutes). Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess water and set aside to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, finely dice the dill pickles, red onion, and celery. Chop the fresh dill and set aside.
  3. Drain the tuna: Open the cans and drain the liquid thoroughly. Flake the tuna into a bowl with a fork, breaking up any large chunks.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dill pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, chopped pickles, red onion, celery, and fresh dill. Pour the dressing over the top and fold gently until evenly coated.
  6. Add finishing touches: Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the salad and give it one last gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Chill (optional but recommended): Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For best results, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of yogurt or a splash of pickle juice. Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key. Cool the pasta completely before adding dressing to prevent gumminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna pasta salad, dill pickle pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, easy lunch recipe, meal prep pasta salad

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/creamy-zesty-dill-pickle-tuna-pasta-salad/