The Best Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, you need meals that are wholesome, filling, and quick to prepare. Enter the tuna pasta salad, a family favourite that’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s light yet satisfying, packed with protein and veggies, and easy to make ahead.

Tuna pasta salad is the ultimate quick-fix meal: affordable, delicious and versatile. Whether served warm or cold, it makes an ideal dinner, side dish, or even lunchbox option. The combination of tender pasta, creamy dressing, and the salty tang of tuna hits all the right notes. Add colourful vegetables for extra crunch and freshness, and you’ve got a complete meal in a bowl.

This recipe is all about convenience without compromise. It takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, and you can customise it with whatever’s in your fridge, from peas and peppers to cheese or boiled eggs. Perfect for weeknights when time is short but your appetite isn’t.

Ingredients

• 250g pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)
• 1 can (170g) tuna in brine or oil, drained
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain yoghurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas, cooked and cooled
• ½ red pepper, diced
• ½ cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, yoghurt, lemon juice, and mustard. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the cooked pasta, tuna, peas, red pepper, cucumber, and onion.
4. Toss everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated with dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with parsley.
6. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving, or serve immediately.

How to Prepare

Start by choosing the right pasta shape – short, sturdy types like fusilli or penne hold the dressing well. Be sure not to overcook the pasta; it should stay slightly firm. Once cooked, rinse it under cold water to prevent sticking and to cool it quickly. For the dressing, blend mayo and yoghurt to get a creamy yet light texture. Lemon juice adds brightness, while mustard deepens the flavour. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the tuna too much. You can easily turn this into a heartier meal by adding boiled eggs, sweetcorn, or even a handful of grated cheese. If you prefer a healthier twist, swap mayo for Greek yoghurt or add avocado for extra creaminess.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Servings

Serves 4

FAQs

Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of brine?

Yes, tuna in oil adds extra richness. You can just drain it slightly before mixing.

How long can tuna pasta salad last in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Stir before serving.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavours develop overnight.

Can I make it without mayonnaise?

Use Greek yoghurt, avocado, or a light vinaigrette for a healthier version.

What can I serve with tuna pasta salad?

It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe for busy South African weeknights, and it is quick, tasty and wonderfully versatile. It’s creamy yet refreshing, with tender pasta, juicy tuna and crisp vegetables all brought together in a light, zesty dressing. Whether served chilled for summer lunches or as a last-minute dinner, it’s a family favourite that never disappoints. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, customisable, and perfect for leftovers or lunchboxes. When time is short, but you still want a meal that feels homemade, this tuna pasta salad is your go-to. Fresh, satisfying and ready in minutes, it’s comfort food made easy.