Tuna Pasta
Tuna pasta is a delightful and quick dish that combines tender pasta with savory tuna, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple lunch, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be made in under 30 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (spaghetti or penne)
– 1 can (150g) tuna, drained
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons capers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) of tuna pasta contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add drained tuna, olives, and capers to the pan.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the sauce.
9. Toss everything together until well combined.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the tuna with canned salmon or chicken for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, replace the tuna with chickpeas or black beans. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a lighter dish.
Serving and Pairings
Tuna pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it moist. This dish is not recommended for freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Not draining the tuna properly can make the dish watery.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the flavors.
- Forgetting to season the sauce will result in a bland dish.
- Skipping the olive oil can lead to a dry pasta.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality tuna for better flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano.
- For added heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Cook pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tuna, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the dish.
What type of pasta works best for tuna pasta?
Any pasta works well, but short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce better than long pasta.
Can I make tuna pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Tuna pasta keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for lunches throughout the week.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness, or incorporate spinach for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Tuna pasta is a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Tuna Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta spaghetti or penne
- 1 can 150g tuna, drained
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup olives pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add drained tuna, olives, and capers to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.