5 Tuna Macaroni Salad Side Dishes That Will Wow Your Guests

What to Serve With Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a classic American dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer cookouts. It is also a great way to use up leftover tuna. While tuna macaroni salad is delicious on its own, there are a number of other dishes that can be served alongside it to create a complete and satisfying meal.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad. We will also provide some tips on how to make your tuna macaroni salad even more delicious. So whether you are planning a summer cookout or simply looking for a new way to enjoy tuna macaroni salad, read on for some great ideas!

Food Description Recipe
Baked Potato A baked potato is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with tuna macaroni salad. The fluffy potato and creamy salad are a match made in heaven. Baked Potato Recipe
Corn on the Cob Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that is also a great option for serving with tuna macaroni salad. The sweet corn and tangy salad are a refreshing combination that is perfect for a hot day. Corn on the Cob Recipe
Cucumber Salad A cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that can help to balance out the richness of the tuna macaroni salad. The crunchy cucumbers and tangy dressing are a perfect complement to the creamy salad. Cucumber Salad Recipe
Fruit Salad A fruit salad is a colorful and healthy side dish that is perfect for serving with tuna macaroni salad. The sweet fruit and creamy salad are a delicious combination that is sure to please everyone. Fruit Salad Recipe

Main Dishes to Serve with Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a classic summer dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. It is also a great way to use up leftover cooked pasta and tuna. While tuna macaroni salad is often served as a side dish, it can also be the main course. Here are some ideas for main dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad:

  • Grilled chicken. Grilled chicken is a classic pairing for tuna macaroni salad. The smoky flavor of the grilled chicken complements the creamy and tangy flavor of the salad. Serve the chicken and salad together on a bun for a quick and easy meal.
  • Salmon. Salmon is another great option for a main dish to serve with tuna macaroni salad. The rich flavor of the salmon pairs well with the light and refreshing flavor of the salad. You can grill, bake, or poach the salmon, and then serve it with the salad.
  • Steak. Steak is a hearty and flavorful main dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The steak can be grilled, pan-fried, or roasted. Serve the steak with the salad and a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Pork chops. Pork chops are a delicious and versatile main dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. The pork chops can be grilled, pan-fried, or baked. Serve the pork chops with the salad and a side of mashed potatoes or rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
  • Vegetarian chili. If you are looking for a vegetarian main dish to serve with tuna macaroni salad, vegetarian chili is a great option. The chili is hearty and flavorful, and it is sure to please even meat-eaters. Serve the chili with the salad and a side of cornbread for a satisfying and healthy meal.
  • Vegan burger. Vegan burgers are a great option for a main dish to serve with tuna macaroni salad. The burgers are made from plant-based ingredients, and they are packed with flavor. Serve the burgers with the salad and a side of fries for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Side Dishes to Serve with Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for side dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad:

  • Potato salad. Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The creamy and tangy flavor of the potato salad complements the creamy and tangy flavor of the salad.
  • Coleslaw. Coleslaw is another classic side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The crunchy cabbage and carrots in the coleslaw add a refreshing contrast to the creamy and rich flavor of the salad.
  • Green beans. Green beans are a healthy and versatile side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The green beans can be steamed, roasted, or grilled.
  • Carrots. Carrots are a healthy and crunchy side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The carrots can be steamed, roasted, or grilled.
  • Cucumbers. Cucumbers are a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The cucumbers can be sliced or diced and served with a simple dressing.
  • Tomatoes. Tomatoes are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad. The tomatoes can be sliced or diced and served with a simple dressing.

These are just a few ideas for main dishes and side dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad. You can also serve the salad with your favorite bread, crackers, or chips. With so many delicious options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect main dish and side dishes to complement your tuna macaroni salad.

3. Salads to Serve with Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a classic American dish that is often served as a main course or side dish. It is made with tuna, macaroni noodles, celery, onion, and mayonnaise. While tuna macaroni salad is delicious on its own, it can also be served with a variety of salads to create a more complete meal.

Here are some salads that pair well with tuna macaroni salad:

  • Caesar salad. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad make a great contrast to the creamy tuna macaroni salad.
  • Greek salad. The fresh vegetables and feta cheese in a Greek salad add a healthy and flavorful twist to tuna macaroni salad.
  • Waldorf salad. The apples, celery, and walnuts in a Waldorf salad add a sweet and crunchy element to tuna macaroni salad.
  • Summer salad. The fresh fruits and vegetables in a summer salad make a light and refreshing accompaniment to tuna macaroni salad.
  • Fruit salad. The sweet fruit in a fruit salad helps to cut through the richness of the tuna macaroni salad.
  • Mixed greens salad. The greens in a mixed greens salad provide a healthy and refreshing base for tuna macaroni salad.

4. Desserts to Serve with Tuna Macaroni Salad

Tuna macaroni salad is a savory dish, so it is often paired with desserts that are sweet and light. Here are some desserts that pair well with tuna macaroni salad:

  • Ice cream. The creamy ice cream is a delicious contrast to the creamy tuna macaroni salad.
  • Cake. The light and fluffy cake is a perfect way to end a meal.
  • Pie. The flaky crust and sweet filling of a pie are a classic combination that pairs well with tuna macaroni salad.
  • Cookies. The crunchy cookies are a great way to add a little sweetness to tuna macaroni salad.
  • Brownies. The rich and fudgy brownies are a decadent way to end a meal.
  • Fruit crumble. The warm fruit and crumbly topping of a fruit crumble is a delicious and comforting dessert.

Tuna macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or side dish. It can be paired with a variety of salads and desserts to create a complete and satisfying meal.

What To Serve With Tuna Macaroni Salad?

  • What are some good side dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad?
  • Potato salad
  • Pasta salad
  • Green salad
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Fresh fruit
  • Crackers or bread
  • What are some good main dishes to serve with tuna macaroni salad?
  • Grilled fish or chicken
  • Pizza
  • Sandwiches
  • Burgers
  • Tacos
  • Soup
  • What are some good drinks to serve with tuna macaroni salad?
  • Lemonade
  • Iced tea
  • Soda
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • How can I make tuna macaroni salad ahead of time?
  • To make tuna macaroni salad ahead of time, follow the recipe as directed, but do not add the dressing. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, add the dressing and stir to combine.
  • How can I make tuna macaroni salad more interesting?
  • There are many ways to make tuna macaroni salad more interesting. Here are a few ideas:
  • Add different vegetables, such as celery, carrots, or tomatoes.
  • Add different protein sources, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Add different flavors, such as herbs, spices, or cheese.
  • Dress the salad with a different type of dressing, such as a vinaigrette or a creamy dressing.
  • What are some common mistakes people make when making tuna macaroni salad?
  • Some common mistakes people make when making tuna macaroni salad include:
  • Using too much mayonnaise.
  • Not draining the tuna well.
  • Not mixing the ingredients well.
  • Serving the salad too soon.
  • How can I make the perfect tuna macaroni salad?
  • To make the perfect tuna macaroni salad, follow these tips:
  • Use a good quality mayonnaise.
  • Drain the tuna well.
  • Mix the ingredients well.
  • Serve the salad chilled.

    Tuna macaroni salad is a classic summer dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. It is also a great way to use up leftover tuna. This article has discussed the different ingredients that can be used in tuna macaroni salad, as well as some tips for making it. The article has also provided some suggestions for side dishes that can be served with tuna macaroni salad.

Here is a summary of the key points discussed in the article:

  • The main ingredients in tuna macaroni salad are tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onions, and hard-boiled eggs.
  • Other ingredients that can be added to tuna macaroni salad include olives, pickles, carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
  • Tuna macaroni salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Tuna macaroni salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
  • Some suggested side dishes for tuna macaroni salad include potato salad, coleslaw, fruit salad, and grilled vegetables.

With these tips in mind, you can make a delicious and crowd-pleasing tuna macaroni salad that everyone will enjoy.

Author Profile

Jennifer Lucks
Jennifer Lucks
With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.
Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.
In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.
Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.