Penne with white sauce and tuna

Penne with white sauce and tuna: a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I propose we discover together a recipe that combines the perfect texture of penne pasta with a creamy white sauce, full of flavors, brought to life by the delicate tuna and feta cheese. This dish is not only easy to make but also an excellent choice for a quick yet sophisticated dinner. Over time, pasta has evolved and been reinterpreted in countless ways, but the combination with creamy sauces and fresh ingredients has always remained popular. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:
- 250-300 g penne (choose a quality brand for optimal results)
- 2 cloves of garlic (fresh is best)
- 300 g cooking cream (opt for a high-fat cream for a creamier texture)
- 150 g feta cheese (should be of good quality for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g grated cheese (preferably aged cheese for a stronger aroma)
- 200 g tuna in natural juice or oil (if you want a lighter option, choose tuna in natural juice)
- 1 small can of peas (fresh peas can be an excellent alternative if you have them on hand)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a fresh taste)
- Basil (fresh or dried, to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, for a more intense flavor)
- Olive oil (high-quality for added flavor)

Step by step:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt (about a tablespoon) and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t disintegrate in the sauce.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the crushed garlic over low heat. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter. This step is essential to develop the subtle flavors of the sauce.

3. Adding the cream: Once the garlic is fragrant, add the cream and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally. It’s important to use low heat so the cream doesn’t curdle.

4. Feta and grated cheese: When the cream starts to simmer, add the crumbled feta cheese and grated cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are completely melted and you have a homogeneous mixture.

5. Seasoning the sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat but keep the sauce warm. Season with freshly ground pepper, basil, and lemon juice. These ingredients will add a note of freshness and an interesting contrast to the creaminess of the sauce.

6. Preparing the tuna and peas: Drain the tuna and peas well. Use a fork to break the tuna into smaller pieces. Add both ingredients to the warm sauce and mix well to incorporate them.

7. Combining the pasta with the sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet, gently mixing to coat each piece of pasta with the delicious sauce.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the surface becomes golden and crispy. This step will give the dish a pleasant texture.

9. Serving: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil for an attractive look.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add extra protein, you can incorporate some grilled chicken cubes or even shrimp, which will pair perfectly with the white sauce.
- Substitute feta cheese with ricotta for a lighter consistency.
- For a vegetarian option, you can add vegetables like spinach or sautéed zucchini.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the tuna and cheeses, also providing a decent dose of healthy fats from the olive oil. Peas bring fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, aiding in healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or whole grain penne.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will perfectly complement the flavors of the sauce.

This recipe for penne with white sauce and tuna is simple, quick, and full of delicious flavors, perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or to impress guests. By experimenting with various ingredients and variations, you can transform this dish into your favorite! Enjoy your meal!