Spaghetti with tuna sauce

Spaghetti with Tuna Sauce - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Spaghetti with tuna sauce is an excellent choice for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. This recipe combines the soft texture of pasta with the rich taste of tuna and the fresh flavors of vegetables. Ideal for the whole family, this dish is sure to become a favorite, especially when served with a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top. Let's see how we can prepare this dish!

Ingredients needed

- 2 cans of tuna in its own juice (340 g each)
- 250-300 g spaghetti
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- ½ bell pepper
- 1 can of whole peeled tomatoes (400 g)
- 5-6 sprigs of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Grated parmesan for serving

A short story

Tuna recipes have gained popularity over the years due to their versatility and pleasant taste. This protein-rich fish, high in omega-3 fatty acids, is often used in quick and healthy meals, especially favored in modern kitchens. Spaghetti with tuna sauce is not only easy to prepare but also very satisfying, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners.

Preparation method

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. This step is essential as the onion will add a flavorful base to the sauce. Cut the bell pepper into suitable pieces and slice the garlic thinly. These vegetables will contribute to a delicious sauce.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, letting them sauté for 1-2 minutes until they become translucent. Make sure not to brown them, just soften them.

3. Adding the bell pepper and tuna
Once the onion and garlic have softened, add the chopped bell pepper. Let it soften slightly, about 2-3 minutes, then add the well-drained tuna. Avoid breaking the tuna too much; leave some larger pieces for an interesting texture.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce
In a blender, place the peeled tomatoes and blend them into a paste. Add this paste to the skillet mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until it thickens and reaches a creamy consistency.

5. Boiling the pasta
In a large pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. If you prefer a nicer presentation, you can break them in half for more even cooking. Boil according to the package instructions, about 12-14 minutes, then drain well.

6. Finalizing the sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, add the dried basil and finely chopped fresh parsley. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Mixing the pasta with the sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, mixing well to coat them evenly with the delicious sauce. This is the moment when the flavors come together and the dish becomes truly special.

8. Serving
Plate the servings and sprinkle grated parmesan on top. Garnish each serving with a splash of fresh parsley for a beautiful look and added flavor.

Serving suggestions and variations

To add extra flavor, you can serve these spaghetti with tuna sauce alongside a fresh green salad or homemade bread. A bottle of white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

If you want to experiment, you can add black olives or capers for a more intense taste. A vegetarian version can also be made by replacing the tuna with mushrooms or tofu, keeping the rest of the ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh tuna?
Of course! If you have access to fresh tuna, you can grill or pan-sear it, then add it to the sauce.

2. Can I replace the spaghetti with other types of pasta?
Yes, any type of pasta will work, from fettuccine to penne. Choose what you prefer!

3. What can I do with leftover sauce?
If you have leftover sauce, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days. It’s delicious on bread or as a filling for sandwiches.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the tuna, which contains omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. Tomatoes provide antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect the body. Garlic and onion are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Calories

A serving of spaghetti with tuna sauce contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of parmesan used and the type of pasta. It’s a nutritious meal perfect for satisfying hunger without compromising health.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with tuna sauce is an ideal choice for a quick and tasty dinner. You are now ready to try this simple yet flavorful recipe! Don’t forget to share your culinary experiences with friends and family. Enjoy your meal!