Baked Penne with Tuna

Delicious Baked Penne with Tuna Recipe

Who doesn't sometimes crave a quick, tasty, and comforting meal? Baked penne with tuna is the perfect choice for a simple yet flavorful dinner. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to individual preferences.

Recipe History

Pasta is a staple food in many cultures, with a rich history spanning several centuries. Penne, with their characteristic shape, are ideal for holding delicious sauces, and the combination with tuna is a classic. This baked penne with tuna recipe is a modern reinterpretation of traditional dishes, perfect for enjoying with family or friends.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Baking time: 45-50 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
- Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g penne (or any other preferred type of pasta)
- 250 g tuna in its own juice (choose a quality brand for better taste)
- 200 g diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and oregano (to taste)
- 100 g grated parmesan (don't compromise on quality!)

Step by Step for a Perfect Recipe

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt, then bring to a boil. Add the penne and cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Drain the pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside.

3. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with olive oil. This step is important to prevent sticking and to allow for even browning.

4. Assemble the ingredients: Place 3/4 of the pasta in the prepared dish. The arrangement of the penne is essential as it will form the base of the dish.

5. Add the tuna: Drain the tuna from its juice and distribute it evenly over the pasta in the dish.

6. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes with a little water (if too thick) and seasonings: salt, pepper, and oregano. Pour this mixture over the tuna and pasta.

7. Complete the assembly: Place the remaining pasta on top and generously sprinkle with grated parmesan. This is the secret to a golden, delicious crust that will add extra flavor to the dish.

8. Bake in the oven: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

9. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. It is delicious served warm, with an extra portion of grated parmesan on top.

Practical Tips

- Choose ingredients carefully: Use quality tuna, as the cheapest may be too wet and hard to drain. Quality tuna adds a more intense flavor to the dish.
- Variations: You can add black olives or capers for a Mediterranean taste, or a few slices of red pepper for color and texture.
- Pasta: If you don't have penne, don't worry! This recipe works well with any type of pasta, such as fusilli or rigatoni.

Nutritional Benefits

This baked penne with tuna recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Tuna is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Tomatoes add antioxidants, while pasta provides carbohydrates for energy. A serving contains approximately 450 calories, varying based on the amount of parmesan used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthy option and will add an interesting texture to the dish.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian? You can replace the tuna with cooked chickpeas or mushrooms to maintain the consistency and add protein.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, this dish can be assembled a few hours before baking. Just cover the dish with aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge.

Perfect Pairings

Baked penne with tuna pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, perhaps with a lemon and olive oil dressing, or with a serving of grilled asparagus. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal, adding an extra touch of refinement.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! This baked penne with tuna recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but will surely become one of your favorites for quick and delicious dinners. Enjoy your meal!