Pasta with tuna

Captivating pasta recipe with tuna and tomato sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world! Today we will prepare a delicious recipe for pasta with tuna and tomato sauce, a simple and quick meal, perfect for busy days or moments when you want to enjoy a comforting yet healthy lunch. This recipe has deep roots in cooking traditions, where simple ingredients transform into delicious, flavorful dishes.

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g pasta (bow ties, farfalle, or fusilli)
- 3 cans of crushed tuna (approximately 400 g in total)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 120 ml tomato juice (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 tablespoon of ketchup
- 1 teaspoon of oregano or basil (to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Grated Parmigiano, for serving

Preparation technique:
1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the water reaches a boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This process should take about 8-10 minutes.

2. Preparing the sauce: While the pasta is boiling, take a large skillet and add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Adding the flavors: Add the crushed garlic cloves and continue to cook for another minute until the garlic releases its aroma. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can give the sauce a bitter taste.

4. Forming the sauce: Add the tomato paste and tomato juice to the skillet, stirring well to combine the ingredients. After about a minute, add the canned tuna, including the oil from the can for extra flavor. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.

5. Seasoning: Add the ketchup, oregano or basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water to thin it out.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the tuna sauce. Gently toss to combine the pasta with the sauce, being careful not to break the pasta. If necessary, you can add a little pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.

7. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated Parmigiano on top. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for a nice touch and extra aroma.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the pasta: You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but bow ties or spirals are ideal for holding the sauce.
- Tuna: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can choose tuna in olive oil or in water, depending on your preferences. Tuna in water is lower in calories, but tuna in oil offers extra flavor.
- Spices: Play with the spices! You can add chili peppers or olives for an extra flavor boost.
- Variations: This recipe is very versatile. You can replace the tuna with cooked chicken or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are an excellent source of energy. Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, bringing extra fiber and nutrients.
- Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can quickly reheat it before adding the pasta.
- How much salt should I use? Start with half a teaspoon and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that canned tuna may already contain salt.

Serving recommendations:
This tuna pasta goes wonderfully with a simple green salad, dressed with olive oil and lemon. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this recipe for pasta with tuna and tomato sauce brings joy to your kitchen. Cooking is an art, and every meal you prepare is an opportunity to create delicious memories with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!