Tuna Pasta Salad with Sweet Corn and Dill is a refreshing, easy-to-make dish perfect for lunch, picnics, or light dinners. Flaky tuna, tender pasta, and sweet corn are combined with a creamy dill dressing, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

This salad is both colorful and nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables. The dill adds a bright, herby flavor that complements the tuna and sweet corn beautifully. Ideal for make-ahead meals or casual gatherings, this salad is versatile, convenient, and full of flavor, making it a staple in any recipe collection.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. The tender pasta absorbs the light dill dressing, while the tuna provides heartiness and protein. Sweet corn adds bursts of natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch, making every bite enjoyable.

It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is both satisfying and refreshing. This salad is also highly versatile, making it easy to customize based on what’s in your pantry or fridge, while still delivering delicious results.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a classic tuna salad into a pasta-based meal that is filling, flavorful, and portable. It’s ideal for lunches on the go, picnic baskets, or family meals.

The combination of dill, tuna, and sweet corn is refreshing and unique, offering a different flavor profile than traditional tuna salads. It is easy to make in advance, travels well, and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that can serve multiple purposes.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–27 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course / Salad
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli, penne, or macaroni)
• 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained tuna, sweet corn, red bell pepper, and red onion.
2. Pour the dill dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
Mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix pasta, tuna, sweet corn, bell pepper, and red onion.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Add the dressing and toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main course, picnic dish, or light dinner. Pair with fresh bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use al dente pasta to prevent mushiness after mixing with dressing.
• Drain tuna and sweet corn well to avoid a watery salad.
• Adjust the amount of dill to suit your taste preference.
• Make ahead: prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate for optimal flavor.
• Add a splash of olive oil if a lighter dressing is preferred.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with chickpeas or white beans.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or feta cheese for extra flavor.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
• Creamier Dressing: Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or more mayonnaise.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Best served chilled and fresh.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as pasta and vegetables can become mushy upon thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Saucepan for cooking pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Spoon or spatula for tossing
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned corn for this salad?
Yes, canned corn works perfectly; just drain it well before adding.

Q2: Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, make the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Toss before serving.

Q3: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna can be used, but canned tuna is convenient and flavorful.

Q4: How long can this salad stay in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 2–3 days in an airtight container.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or peas are excellent additions.

Conclusion

Tuna Pasta Salad with Sweet Corn and Dill is a light, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for lunches, picnics, or casual dinners. The combination of tender pasta, flaky tuna, sweet corn, and herbaceous dill dressing creates a refreshing yet satisfying salad. Easy to prepare, customizable, and ideal for make-ahead meals, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a nutritious and delicious dish that balances creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.