Spaghetti with tuna and garlic

Spaghetti with Tuna and Garlic - a simple and delicious recipe

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

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will present to you a quick and flavorful recipe: spaghetti with tuna and garlic. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want to enjoy a tasty dish without spending hours in front of the stove. Spaghetti with tuna and garlic is not just a meal, but a story about simplicity and flavor, a combination that has won hearts around the world. Let’s get started!

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 cans of tuna in oil or water (preferably Rio Mare, for a richer taste)
- 300 g spaghetti
- 2 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- 1 glass of red wine (optional, but recommended for added aroma)
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (preferably high quality)
- 1 small white onion
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional, but highly recommended)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Slice the onion thinly and mince the garlic. This will make the cooking process quicker and more efficient.

2. Pasta:
Put a large pot of water on the stove and add a tablespoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 7 minutes. If you prefer softer pasta, you can leave them a little longer, but be careful not to overcook them!

3. Preparing the sauce:
While the pasta is boiling, take a food processor and add the drained tuna, sliced onion, and peeled tomatoes. Blend everything until you have a smooth paste. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender or chop everything manually for a more rustic texture.

4. Cooking the sauce:
In a large skillet, add the tuna and tomato mixture. Add the crushed garlic (or chopped, if you prefer). Pour in the red wine and let the sauce simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It will become more concentrated and develop delicious flavors.

5. Finishing the dish:
When the pasta is ready, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Add the pasta to the skillet over the tuna sauce. Mix well so that the sauce is evenly integrated into the pasta. Let it heat together for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serving:
Serve the spaghetti with tuna and garlic immediately, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A garnish of freshly chopped parsley can add a touch of freshness and color.

Practical tips:

- Tuna: Choose a good quality tuna for a more intense flavor. Tuna in oil will make the sauce richer, while tuna in water is lighter.
- Wine: Red wine is optional, but adds depth of flavor. If you don’t consume alcohol, you can skip it or replace it with vegetable broth.
- Variations: You can add sliced black olives or capers for extra flavor. Additionally, adding finely chopped chili peppers can provide a bit of heat.
- Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a slice of toasted bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional benefits:

Spaghetti is a good source of carbohydrates, essential for energy, while tuna provides quality protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This recipe combines culinary pleasure with nutritional benefits, making it ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option and adds an extra note of flavor.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the tuna with a combination of vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to create a delicious vegetarian meal.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Although it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it and add the cooked pasta.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light red wine pairs perfectly with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, herbal tea or fresh lemonade can be excellent choices.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this recipe for spaghetti with tuna and garlic. It’s simple, quick, and extremely tasty! Don’t forget to share the final result with friends and family, because goodness is best shared. Enjoy your meal!