Classic Summer Tuna & Macaroni Delight
This Classic Summer Tuna & Macaroni Delight is a cherished family recipe that has been passed down through generations. With a perfect harmony of tender elbow macaroni, flaked albacore tuna, crisp celery, and tangy green olives, every bite is a delightful journey of flavors. The creamy dressing made with Miracle Whip adds a cool, refreshing finish, making it a standout side dish for any summer gathering or picnic. Even those who typically shy away from olives will find it hard to resist! Enjoy this dish alongside juicy burgers, grilled brats, or a vibrant fruit salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
4-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Albacore tuna
1 (6 ounce) can (drained and flaked)
Miracle Whip
1/2-3/4 cup (none)
Celery ribs
2 (finely diced)
Green olives
1/3 cup (sliced (with pimentos))
Elbow macaroni
1 lb (cooked slightly al dente, chilled, and rinsed)
Onion powder
to taste (none)
Celery salt
to taste (none)
Garlic salt
to taste (none)
Black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until slightly undercooked (al dente). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to chill completely.
2
In a large mixing bowl, drain the canned albacore tuna and flake it using a fork. Add the finely diced celery and sliced green olives to the bowl.
3
Add the chilled macaroni to the mixture along with the Miracle Whip. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4
Season the salad with onion powder, celery salt, garlic salt, black pepper, and Morton's Nature Seasoning to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as the olives add saltiness.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6
Serve chilled as a delightful side dish with burgers, brats, or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a lighter meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Summer Tuna & Macaroni Delight?
It is a cherished family recipe for a creamy macaroni salad featuring tuna, celery, and green olives.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
What is the primary protein in this dish?
The main protein is one 6-ounce can of albacore tuna, drained and flaked.
What type of pasta is required?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of elbow macaroni.
How should the macaroni be cooked?
Cook the macaroni until it is slightly undercooked, also known as al dente.
What is the recommended dressing for this salad?
The recipe uses 1/2 to 3/4 cup of Miracle Whip for a tangy, creamy finish.
Which vegetables are included for crunch?
Two finely diced celery ribs are added for a crisp texture.
What kind of olives should be used?
Use 1/3 cup of sliced green olives, specifically those with pimentos.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The seasoning includes onion powder, celery salt, garlic salt, black pepper, and Morton's Nature Seasoning.
Why is it important to rinse the pasta in cold water?
Rinsing stops the cooking process and ensures the pasta is completely chilled before mixing.
How long should the salad be refrigerated before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is categorized as toddler-friendly and a favorite for family gatherings.
What are some suggested pairings for this dish?
It pairs well with juicy burgers, grilled brats, or a vibrant fruit salad.
How do I prepare the tuna?
Drain the canned tuna and use a fork to flake it into small pieces.
Why should I be careful with adding extra salt?
The green olives and the various seasoned salts already provide a significant amount of saltiness.
Can I serve this salad warm?
No, this dish is intended to be served chilled as a refreshing summer side.
Is this a traditional family recipe?
Yes, it is described as a cherished family recipe passed down through generations.
What does 'al dente' mean in this context?
It means the pasta should still be firm to the bite, which helps it hold up better in the salad.
How should the celery be cut?
The celery ribs should be finely diced to ensure even distribution.
What makes the dressing tangy?
The use of Miracle Whip instead of standard mayonnaise provides the signature tangy flavor.
Is this a good dish for a picnic?
Yes, it is a standout side dish specifically recommended for picnics and summer gatherings.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients listed for this macaroni delight.
Can I use regular green olives?
The recipe specifies green olives with pimentos for the best flavor balance.
Should the bowl be covered in the fridge?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid during the 45-minute chilling period.
What is the texture of the final dish?
It is a harmony of tender pasta, flaked tuna, and crisp vegetables in a creamy dressing.
What if I don't like olives?
The recipe notes that even those who typically shy away from olives often find this dish hard to resist.
What specific brand of seasoning is mentioned?
Morton's Nature Seasoning is recommended for the final seasoning step.
Is there a specific way to stir the ingredients?
The instructions suggest stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly without mashing the pasta.
Does this recipe contain garlic?
Yes, it includes garlic salt as part of the seasoning mix.
Is this considered a light meal?
It can be served as a lighter meal when paired with a fresh fruit salad.