Straightforward Tuna Pasta Recipe (25-Minutes)

This tuna pasta recipe is the proper answer for busy weeknights if you want a fast, scrumptious, and budget-friendly meal.

With only a handful of pantry staples, this dish comes collectively in 25 minutes, making it preferrred for last-minute dinners.

The mixture of tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a flavorful sauce creates a comforting meal that’s each nutritious and satisfying.

Whether or not you favor a light-weight and zesty model or a creamy and indulgent twist, this tuna pasta recipe is very versatile and straightforward to customise.

Maintain studying for step-by-step directions, ideas, and variations to make the perfect tuna pasta at house.

Components for the Greatest Tuna Pasta

This recipe depends on easy substances that you just doubtless have already got in your kitchen.

Important Components:

12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
2 cans (5 ounces every) tuna, drained (oil-packed or water-packed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
½ teaspoon pink pepper flakes (optionally available for spice)
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to style
¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta)
¼ cup recent parsley or basil, chopped
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optionally available)
Juice of ½ lemon (for freshness)

Optionally available Add-Ins:

¼ cup olives, sliced
1 tablespoon capers
½ cup spinach or arugula
2 tablespoons cream or cream cheese (for a creamy model)

The way to Make Tuna Pasta (Step-by-Step Information)

Step 1: Cook dinner the Pasta

Convey a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook dinner the pasta based on the package deal directions till al dente. Earlier than draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water. Drain and put aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a big skillet, warmth the olive oil over medium warmth. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing till mushy and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Construct the Sauce

Stir within the diced tomatoes, pink pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, permitting the flavors to meld collectively.

Step 4: Add the Tuna

Gently fold within the drained tuna, breaking it into chunks with a spoon. Stir effectively to mix and let it warmth by way of for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss till absolutely coated within the sauce. If wanted, pour in a bit of reserved pasta water to assist every part mix easily.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Take away from warmth and stir within the recent parsley or basil, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese if utilizing. Serve instantly and luxuriate in.

Ideas for the Good Tuna Pasta

Select the Proper Tuna: Oil-packed tuna provides richness, whereas water-packed tuna retains it lighter.
Improve Taste: Capers, olives, or a pinch of chili flakes elevate the dish.
Don’t Overcook the Tuna: Add it in the direction of the tip to take care of its texture.
Use Al Dente Pasta: Barely agency pasta holds up higher within the sauce.

Variations of Tuna Pasta

Creamy Tuna Pasta

Add 2 tablespoons of cream or cream cheese for a richer, velvety texture.

Spicy Tuna Pasta

Incorporate additional pink pepper flakes or recent chili peppers for a kick.

Mediterranean Tuna Pasta

Combine in olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a vivid, tangy twist.

Tuna Pasta Salad

For a chilly model, swap the tomato sauce for a light-weight dressing fabricated from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

What to Serve with Tuna Pasta

Aspect Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted greens, or a recent facet salad complement the dish.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors.
Toppings: Additional Parmesan, lemon zest, or a drizzle of olive oil provides a of completion.

Storing and Reheating Tuna Pasta

Refrigerate: Retailer leftovers in an hermetic container for as much as 3 days.
Reheat: Heat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to forestall drying out.
Freeze: Whereas doable, freezing could alter the feel of the pasta.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I take advantage of recent tuna as a substitute of canned tuna?

Sure, recent tuna can be utilized. Sear it flippantly, flake it, and add it to the sauce as a substitute of canned tuna.

What sort of pasta works greatest for tuna pasta?

Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or linguine work effectively, however any pasta form will do.

Can I make this a chilly pasta salad?

Sure, let the pasta cool and toss it with olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and tuna as a substitute of utilizing a heat tomato sauce.