A refreshing and protein-packed salad that combines tender pasta shells, flaky tuna, and sweet peas in a tangy, creamy dressing. Perfect for hot days, potlucks, or a quick make-ahead lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes.
Versatile enough to serve as a main dish, side salad, or packed lunch.
Creamy, tangy dressing balances the mild flavor of tuna and the sweetness of peas.
Make-ahead friendly—prepare in advance and keep chilled until serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mayonnaise
Fresh lemon juice
Dried dill
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Red onion, finely diced
Frozen peas
Mini shell pasta
Canned chunk light tuna, drained

Directions

Prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook pasta and peas. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until nearly al dente, about 5–6 minutes. During the final 1–2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Drain the pasta and peas and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Combine ingredients. Transfer the drained pasta and peas to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced red onion and drained tuna. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until all components are evenly coated.
Chill or serve. You may serve immediately at room temperature or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 (approximately 1 cup per serving)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Stir in diced cheddar or fresh mozzarella for added creaminess.
Replace half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
Substitute shallot for the red onion for a milder onion flavor.
Add diced celery or bell pepper for extra crunch and color.
Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs for additional protein and richness.
Mix in sweet or dill pickle relish for a tangy twist.
Swap canned tuna for canned salmon or cooked shredded chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or sliced green onions before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance. For best texture, reserve half of the dressing and add it just before serving.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Reheating: This salad is intended to be served cold. Reheating is not recommended, as it may compromise the texture of the pasta and dressing.

FAQs

What pasta shapes work best for this salad?

Small shapes such as shells, elbows, or bowties are ideal because they capture the dressing and ingredients effectively.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes. Blanch the fresh peas in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer them immediately to an ice bath before draining and mixing.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can assemble the salad up to 24 hours ahead. To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft, toss with only half of the dressing initially and add the remainder just before serving.

Is tuna packed in oil okay to use?

Tuna packed in oil can be used, but be sure to drain it thoroughly. The oil may enrich the dressing, so you may wish to reduce the mayonnaise slightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Diced bell peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots all work well.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, it remains fresh for up to 24 hours. Quality may decline after that time.

Can I freeze tuna pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as thawing may cause the mayonnaise-based dressing to separate and the pasta to become mushy.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (mayonnaise, seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?

Use low-fat mayonnaise or replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You may also increase lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor without added fat.

What is the approximate nutrition per serving?

Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 480 calories, 48 g carbohydrates, 20 g protein, and 22 g fat. Values will vary based on specific brands and any substitutions.

Conclusion

Cold Pasta with Tuna and Peas offers a perfect balance of creamy dressing, tender pasta, and savory tuna complemented by sweet peas. Its simplicity, versatility, and make-ahead convenience make it an excellent choice for casual lunches, family dinners, or summer gatherings. Enjoy this delightful salad any time you need a quick yet satisfying meal.