Macaroni-Tuna Salad

Macaroni-Tuna Salad Recipe - A Delicious and Healthy Meal from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Macaroni-Tuna Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad combines tender macaroni, fresh broccoli, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful tuna, all tossed in a tangy herb dressing. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

History

The origins of Macaroni-Tuna Salad are not clear, but it is believed to have been popularized in the mid-20th century as a convenient and tasty way to enjoy canned tuna. Over the years, different variations of the recipe have emerged, with some adding additional vegetables or herbs to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

1.67 cups uncooked seashell macaroni
0.75 lb (340 g) fresh broccoli
1 large tomato, unpeeled and coarsely chopped
2 small green onions with tops, sliced
1 (6.5 oz (184 g)) can water-packed tuna, drained
1 tbsp dried whole basil
0.5 tbsp dried whole oregano
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
0.13 tsp salt
freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, omitting salt.
Drain the macaroni and rinse it with cold water.
Trim off the outer leaves of the broccoli and remove the tough ends of the lower stalks.
Thoroughly wash the broccoli, then cut the flowerets into bite-size pieces and thinly slice the stalks.
Steam the broccoli for 4 to 6 minutes, or until it is crisp-tender. Let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, tomato, green onions, and tuna. Toss gently.
In a jar, combine the remaining ingredients. Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients.
Chill the salad for several hours, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Substitute canned salmon or chicken for the tuna.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the cooked macaroni with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Steam the broccoli until it is crisp-tender to retain its bright green color and crunchy texture.

- Chill the salad for several hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Macaroni-Tuna Salad can be served on its own as a light meal or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be served on a bed of lettuce for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the broccoli helps retain its nutrients and vibrant color.

- Tossing the salad gently ensures that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of pasta in place of seashell macaroni.

- Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs for a more intense flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Macaroni-Tuna Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Macaroni-Tuna Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a light beer or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Macaroni-Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Macaroni-Tuna Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Macaroni-Tuna Salad contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Macaroni-Tuna Salad contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

One serving of Macaroni-Tuna Salad contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Macaroni-Tuna Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate from the broccoli and tomatoes. It also provides iron and omega-3 fatty acids from the tuna.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat from the macaroni and fish from the tuna. It may also contain traces of soy if the tuna is packed in soybean oil.

Summary

Macaroni-Tuna Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a light meal.

Summary

Macaroni-Tuna Salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light meal or side dish. With its combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and flavorful tuna, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious salad for a quick and easy meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Macaroni-Tuna Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. Margaret was always full of surprises when it came to cooking, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I walked through her front door, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of something cooking on the stove. Margaret had a mischievous glint in her eye as she motioned for me to come closer to the kitchen counter. There, laid out before me, were the ingredients for what she called her "famous Macaroni-Tuna Salad."

I watched in awe as Margaret effortlessly combined cooked macaroni, canned tuna, diced celery, chopped onions, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of vinegar. As she mixed everything together, she explained to me that this recipe was a family favorite that had been passed down through generations.

I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish, and when Margaret finally scooped a generous helping onto a plate for me, I was absolutely blown away by how delicious it was. The creamy dressing perfectly complemented the tender macaroni and chunks of tuna, while the crunchy celery and onions added a delightful contrast of textures. It was a simple yet satisfying dish that I knew I had to learn how to make myself.

Margaret was more than happy to share her recipe with me, and over the years, I have made it countless times for my own family and friends. Every time I whip up a batch of Macaroni-Tuna Salad, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new favorite recipe.

The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It can be served as a light lunch or dinner, a side dish at a barbecue or picnic, or even as a tasty snack for a hungry crowd. I have experimented with different variations over the years, adding in ingredients like diced bell peppers, sweet relish, or hard-boiled eggs to give it a twist. But no matter how I choose to make it, the basic elements of tender macaroni, flavorful tuna, and creamy dressing always remain the same.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking involved, it is the perfect go-to dish for those days when I want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I have even taught my grandchildren how to make it, and it brings me so much joy to see them carrying on the tradition of this beloved family recipe.

As I sit here reminiscing about the first time I learned to make Macaroni-Tuna Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Each dish tells a story, a tale of love, laughter, and countless memories made around the dinner table. And this recipe, with its simple yet comforting flavors, will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the joy of discovering something new and delicious.