1-First Step: Start by gathering all your ingredients to make things smooth. Measure out 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 5 ounces of drained canned white albacore tuna, ½ cup shredded carrots, ⅔ cup diced red onion, 1 cup diced red bell pepper, and 1 cup diced green bell pepper. This easy tuna avocado macaroni salad begins with fresh, prep-ready items for a stress-free cook.

2-Second Step: Dice 2 cups of avocados from about 2 large ones, but hold off on adding them if you’re planning to chill the salad later. For dietary tweaks, you could use bell pepper substitutes like celery or cherry tomatoes to fit your preferences in this creamy avocado tuna pasta salad.

3-Third Step: Cook the 8 ounces of elbow macaroni in boiling water following the package directions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. This keeps your healthy tuna macaroni salad from getting mushy.

4-Fourth Step: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the 5 ounces of drained tuna, ½ cup shredded carrots, ⅔ cup diced red onion, 1 cup diced red bell pepper, and 1 cup diced green bell pepper. If you’re adapting for a gluten-free version, ensure your macaroni is the right type here.

5-Fifth Step: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon dijon mustard until it’s nice and smooth. This dressing is the heart of your tuna pasta salad with avocado, so mix it well for even flavor.

6-Sixth Step: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture in the large bowl and toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preferences.

7-Seventh Step: If you’re serving right away, stir in the 2 cups of diced avocados now. Otherwise, chill the salad in the fridge and add the avocados just before serving to prevent browning. For a variation, check out our another refreshing pasta salad recipe for more ideas.

8-Eighth Step: Serve your tuna avocado macaroni salad immediately or let it chill for better flavors. This best tuna avocado macaroni salad pairs great with proteins like grilled chicken, making it a flexible option for busy families.