Tuna pasta is the ultimate comfort meal that’s ready in no time! This dish combines tender pasta with flaky tuna, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of lemon for a fresh, zesty flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, budget-friendly option, this recipe is packed with protein and full of savory goodness. Customize it with herbs, chili flakes, or veggies to make it your own. Simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious—tuna pasta is a go-to classic you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples like canned tuna and dried pasta.
- Packed with Flavor: A savory, satisfying dish loaded with umami and customizable with various herbs and spices.
- Versatile: Easy to modify based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Tuna Pasta
- Use Good Quality Tuna: Tuna packed in olive oil has more flavor compared to tuna in water. Drain and flake the tuna well before adding to the pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a magic ingredient that helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key! The pasta will continue to cook slightly when you toss it with the sauce.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of white wine for depth.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream or crème fraîche for a luxurious, creamy version.
Variations of Tuna Pasta
Spicy Tuna Pasta
- Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers for a spicy kick.
- Use spicy tuna or add a bit of sriracha to the sauce.
Creamy Tuna Pasta
- Mix in heavy cream, cream cheese, or a spoonful of crème fraîche for a creamy, indulgent sauce.
- Top with extra Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta
- Incorporate ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Veggie-Loaded Tuna Pasta
- Toss in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- You can also roast some zucchini or eggplant and add it to the mix.
How to Serve Tuna Pasta
- Garnish Ideas: Freshly cracked black pepper, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or more lemon zest.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity Rosé complements the dish beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Tuna Pasta tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.
Reheating Tips
- Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Absolutely! If you have fresh tuna, sear it until just cooked through, then flake and use it in place of canned tuna.
What is the best pasta shape for Tuna Pasta?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well as they hold the sauce nicely. However, spaghetti or linguine are classic and equally delicious options.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce is naturally gluten-free!
Can I freeze Tuna Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Tuna Pasta for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
How can I make this dish healthier?
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or broccoli.
- Opt for tuna in water instead of oil to reduce the fat content.
Tuna Pasta
Tuna pasta is the ultimate comfort meal that’s ready in no time! This dish combines tender pasta with flaky tuna, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of lemon for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Ingredients
- Tuna: 11 oz (300g), fresh or canned
- Cherry Tomatoes: 7 oz, halved
- Hot Peppers/Chili: 2, sliced thin (dried or fresh)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Parsley: Chopped, to taste
- Capers: Fresh or canned, as preferred
- Passata/Tomato Puree: ½ bottle
- Rigatoni Pasta: 11 oz (300g)
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Generous amount
Instructions
For the Sauce
- Halve those cherry tomatoes and thinly slice your chili. Rinse capers well if using canned.
- Warm a generous splash of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and chili, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the cherry tomatoes. Press gently to release their juices and sauté for 5-10 minutes.
- Break down the tuna into the pan, mixing well. Add the capers, then season with black pepper.
- Add half a bottle of passata and let everything simmer and meld together for about 10 minutes. Finish with fresh parsley and a pinch of salt, mixing with the heat off.
For the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, per package instructions.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, save a mug of the pasta water.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding splashes of pasta water as needed to coat everything evenly. - Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 170Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 0mgSodium 159mgCarbohydrates 35gFiber 3gSugar 8gProtein 6g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Tuna Pasta is a versatile, comforting meal that never disappoints. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both hearty and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing your friends with a deceptively elegant meal.
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