Pasta with tuna and parmesan

Pasta with Tuna and Parmesan - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to quick and flavorful dishes, pasta with tuna and parmesan is among the most appreciated choices. This dish not only cooks quickly but also combines simple ingredients to create an unforgettable culinary experience. The history of this dish intertwines with the tradition of home cooking, a meal that has brought joy to family tables for generations. Today, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result, full of flavors and textures.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 1 can of tuna in oil (approximately 200 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 200 g grated parmesan
- 2 peperoncino (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of broth
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt (to taste)

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot for boiling the pasta
- A deep frying pan
- A small grater
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A colander for draining the pasta

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta is boiling, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a deep frying pan, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Peel the carrot and grate it finely. Add the grated carrot to the pan and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly golden.

3. Add the Tuna and Spices
Once the carrot has taken on a nice color, add the peperoncino (if you prefer a spicy sauce) and the can of tuna, including its oil. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the broth and a cup of water, then let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and create a delicious base for the pasta.

4. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
When the pasta is ready, drain it well and add it to the pan over the sauce. Gently mix to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let it cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes so that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and add the grated parmesan on top. Mix again to incorporate the cheese. Serve the pasta warm, sprinkled with extra parmesan if desired. A personal suggestion would be to add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Practical Tip

For a more sophisticated sauce, you can try a slightly more complex version. Grate the carrot, finely chop a small onion and a celery leaf, and then add peeled, blanched tomatoes. Sauté all these ingredients until fragrant, add water and broth, then let it simmer for 40-50 minutes with a lid. Finally, blend the sauce using a blender to obtain a thick and delicious paste.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tuna is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. The carrot provides a good amount of vitamin A, essential for eye health, while parmesan offers calcium and protein. In total, a serving of pasta with tuna and parmesan contains approximately 550 calories, depending on the type of pasta and the amount of cheese used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients, making this dish even healthier.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian?
You can replace the tuna with mushrooms or tofu to add a similar texture and maintain a rich protein content.

3. What other ingredients can I add to diversify the dish?
You can add black olives, red peppers, or even some capers for a more intense flavor. Experimenting with fresh vegetables is always welcome!

Recommended Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette. A white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the dish. Additionally, for dessert, a tart with fresh fruits or a lemon sorbet would provide a refreshing contrast.

In conclusion, pasta with tuna and parmesan is an easy-to-make dish, full of flavor and versatility. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your tastes! Cook with love and joy and let the aroma of this pasta enrich your meals!