Easy Creamy Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
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One of the best variations of dinner with inexpensive canned tuna that is satisfying is this Easy Creamy Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad—a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with protein, sweet corn, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. It’s versatile, delicious, and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weekdays or gatherings.
This tuna and corn pasta salad is ideal for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even a main course when paired with some crusty bread. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a tasty dish that everyone will love. The perfect easy dinner idea for tonight!
Why You’ll Love This Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad
What makes this pasta salad a standout is the combination of simple ingredients that deliver a comforting yet flavorful dish. The tuna adds a satisfying dose of protein, while the corn provides a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed cold, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or meal-prepping for the week.
For more pasta salad ideas, check these out:
Storage Tips
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems a bit dry after being refrigerated, you can freshen it up with a spoonful of mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Give this Easy Creamy Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad Recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal any time of the day!
Creamy Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 oz of bow-tie pasta cooked
- 2 cans 6 oz each of tuna, drained
- 1 ½ cups of canned corn drained (or use frozen corn, thawed)
- ½ cup celery diced
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped (optional)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain and flake the canned tuna with a fork.
- Dice the celery, and red onion if using.
- Thaw corn if frozen, drain if canned.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and dill.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, drained tuna, corn, celery, and red onion.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition
Variations and Tips for Success
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, adding chopped parsley or chives can elevate the flavor of this pasta salad.
- Mix Up the Veggies: While corn, bell pepper, and celery work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like peas, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes.
- Use Whole Grain Pasta: To boost the fiber content, try using whole-grain or chickpea-based pasta. It will still be just as delicious!
- Lighten It Up: For a lighter version, you can swap out the mayonnaise for all Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative.
- Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess: If you want to take the creaminess up a notch, try adding a handful of shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of crumbled feta.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and easy dish that can be enjoyed as a main meal, a side dish, or even a grab-and-go lunch, this Creamy Tuna and Corn Pasta Salad is a must-try. It’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual pasta salad routine with a unique twist.
