Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Then look no further! This Tuna Tomato Sauce Pasta recipe is your new weeknight savior. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 20 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without the fuss. It's one of those best recipes that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, drained tuna, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Tuna Tomato Sauce Pasta:
- Don't overcook the garlic: Burning the garlic will make the sauce bitter. Cook it just until fragrant.
- Use good quality tuna: The quality of the tuna will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for tuna packed in water, rather than oil, for a healthier option.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of oregano and red pepper flakes to your liking. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Add vegetables: Enhance this easy recipe with extra vegetables! Chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Creamy Tuna Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Tuna Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Mediterranean Tuna Pasta: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal without sacrificing flavor or ease. This tuna tomato sauce pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. Enjoy!