Tuna and Shrimp Mac Salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for various occasions from casual lunches to outdoor picnics. This recipe combines the heartiness of pasta with the savory goodness of seafood, all bound together with a creamy, herb-infused dressing. Follow along to learn how to create this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb elbow pasta
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and also cools it down quickly for the salad.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Chop the green onions thinly, including both the white and green parts.
- Halve the grape tomatoes and set them aside.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the dressing is smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled elbow pasta.
- Add the diced cucumber, chopped green onions, and halved grape tomatoes to the bowl.
- Gently fold in the drained and flaked tuna along with the chopped cooked shrimp.
5. Mix the Salad
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and seafood mixture in the bowl.
- Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Take care not to break up the tuna and shrimp too much.
6. Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the tuna and shrimp mac salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
Tips:
- Pasta Texture: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape well and provides a slight bite, perfect for pasta salads.
- Seafood Selection: Use high-quality canned tuna and fresh cooked shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Dressing Consistency: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or carrots for added crunch and color.
- Herb Substitutions: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or basil instead of dill for a variation in flavor profiles.
- Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Tuna and Shrimp Mac Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Main Dish: Serve as a standalone main course for a light lunch or dinner.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or burgers for a complete meal.
- Party Favorite: Prepare a large batch for picnics, potlucks, or summer gatherings.
Tuna and Shrimp Mac Salad is a delightful combination of pasta, seafood, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a creamy, herb-infused dressing. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a family meal or sharing it with friends at a social gathering, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow the steps outlined above to create this delicious dish and savor the flavors with every forkful.
