Substitute shell pasta noodles for elbow macaroni to elevate the appearance of the salad.
Tuna macaroni salad blends two simple ingredients most homeowners keep in their pantry year-round. Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference. Lower the fat content by choosing lowfat mayonnaise or substituting plain nonfat yogurt. Vary the type of pasta noodles and the spices to add variety. Mix in pickles, celery, carrots or apples to lend crunch, texture and nutritional value to the salad. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Fill a large pot with water and place it on the stove at medium heat until it begins to slightly boil. Add 3 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Boil until macaroni is tender.
2. Drain the macaroni in a strainer. Let the macaroni sit for a few minutes to cook off or spray with cold water. Drain macaroni again. Pour into a large bowl.
3. Open the cans of tuna and drain the water. Add the tuna to the bowl of macaroni. Add the mayonnaise. Mix well until the pasta is well coated and creamy. Add salt and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator until macaroni is cold.
Tags: Drain macaroni, elbow macaroni, pasta noodles, until macaroni