Pasta (spaghetti) with tuna, tomatoes, and basil

Tuna, Tomato, and Basil Spaghetti - a delicious and quick recipe

Total preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a quick and tasty dish? Tuna, tomato, and basil spaghetti is a perfect example of a simple yet flavorful recipe that can turn an ordinary meal into a feast. This recipe combines fresh ingredients with intense flavors, offering a memorable culinary experience. Let's get started!

A Brief History

Spaghetti, a type of pasta originating from Italy, is loved worldwide and has evolved into numerous variations. The combination of pasta with tuna, a protein-rich ingredient high in omega-3 fatty acids, has become popular due to its ease and speed of preparation. This tuna, tomato, and basil spaghetti recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a meal among friends, being not only delicious but also healthy.

Ingredients

- 250 g spaghetti
- 2 cans of tuna (Home Garden or another preferred brand)
- 3 green garlic cloves
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons flavored olive oil (or regular olive oil)
- A few fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon of roasted pepper paste (or bell pepper) - optional
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Details

- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti, preferably made from durum wheat, for optimal texture.
- Tuna: Canned tuna is an excellent source of protein. Make sure it's well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
- Garlic: Using green garlic adds a subtle and fresh flavor. If unavailable, you can use dried garlic but reduce the quantity.
- Cherry tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet and juicy, perfect for adding a touch of freshness to the dish.
- Basil: Essential for an authentic taste. Fresh basil leaves are much more aromatic than dried ones.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the garlic. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them into quarters. Drain the tuna and flake it with a fork.

2. Cooking the garlic: In a non-stick pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for a few seconds until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the garlic is ready, add the cut cherry tomatoes. Cover the pot and let them simmer for 5 minutes until they become slightly soft.

4. Including the tuna: Add the flaked tuna to the pot, stir, and cover again for 5 minutes so the flavors can blend perfectly.

5. Boiling the spaghetti: Meanwhile, boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions in salted water. When al dente, drain and cover with a lid to keep warm.

6. Finishing the dish: After the tuna and tomatoes are ready, add a few torn basil leaves and mix gently. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.

7. Serving: On plates, place generous portions of spaghetti, and top with the tuna, tomato, and garlic mixture. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a spoonful of roasted pepper paste for a splash of color and a slightly spicy taste.

Serving Tip

It is recommended to serve the spaghetti immediately after preparation, as the flavor is at its peak. Additionally, this spaghetti pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade to balance the intense flavors of the tuna and garlic.

Possible Variations

- Adding vegetables: You can add zucchini or fresh spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
- Fish variation: Instead of tuna, try sardines or smoked salmon for a different flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with chili or Italian spices to give the recipe a twist.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which helps protect cells. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta will add a more rustic texture and more fiber.

2. How can I adjust the recipe for vegetarians? You can omit the tuna and add extra vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

3. What is the best way to store leftovers? Keep the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the oven to maintain texture.

4. Can this dish be frozen? While it is recommended to consume the spaghetti fresh, they can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion

Tuna, tomato, and basil spaghetti is an excellent choice for a quick and healthy meal full of flavor. This simple recipe can be customized according to your tastes and available ingredients. Don’t forget to enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!