When grilling season is in full swing, it isn’t just all about the meat. There are plenty of chilled sides that need to be served as well. Fresh fruits, bread rolls, and of course, salads! Cole slaw, macaroni salad, and potato salad are all popular sides for barbecues, but sometimes you want to change it up a bit. That’s why this tuna macaroni salad is a great addition to any meal.
The tuna macaroni salad is similar to any macaroni salad you would eat starting with a mix of macaroni and mayonnaise as a base. However, it is the addition of tuna, eggs, and veggies like pepper, onion, and celery that take it to the next level. These added ingredients also enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
Tuna is a great source of protein. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids that are essential for the growth and maintenance of lean muscle tissue. Onions also contain amino acids as well as fiber, folic acid, and B vitamins. Peppers are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, folic acid, and fiber. Celery contains essential minerals and vitamins like folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium
The recipe is also a healthier take on traditional macaroni salad due to the use of a lighter, salad dressing type of mayonnaise. You can also forgo the mayo and use natural Greek yogurt for a creamy tang with half of the fat.
Another bonus is that this recipe is easy to make. Just prepare macaroni, mix ingredients, chill, and serve. Spending less time in a hot kitchen will be an added bonus on a summer day. Of course, if you have a big enough grill you can make this outside with ease!
And while this healthy recipe for macaroni salad is perfect as a side for barbecued meat, it is also hearty enough to be a meal all on its own. Served with iced, unsweetened tea, it’s a perfect warm-weather meal…there’s nothing like a cold pasta salad when the temperature is soaring.
Directions:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 (6-ounce) cans tuna, water pack, drained
- 4 hard-cooked eggs, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, chopped
- ¾ cup carrots, grated
- ½ cup salad dressing, mayonnaise-type
- 2 Tablespoons onion, minced
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Ingredients:
1. Place water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain.
2. Combine macaroni, tuna, eggs, celery, and carrots in a large bowl.
3. Stir together salad dressing, onion, and pepper. Spoon dressing over salad; toss until evenly combined.
4. Chill until ready to serve.