Spaghetti with tuna

Tuna Spaghetti: A Simple and Quick Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of pasta! Today, we will explore a recipe for tuna spaghetti that is not only quick and simple but also extremely tasty. This is a perfect choice for everyday dinners or for those moments when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a recipe that combines Mediterranean flavors with an accessible and nutritious ingredient: tuna.

A bit of history
Tuna spaghetti is a dish that has gained popularity worldwide due to its simplicity and versatility. The origins of this recipe are deeply rooted in culinary traditions that use canned fish, a practical solution for having quality protein on hand. This dish combines the strong flavor of tuna with the subtle taste of pasta, creating a perfect balance on the plate.

Necessary ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti
- 1 can of tuna in oil (preferably high-quality tuna)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried basil, for added flavor
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Ingredient details
- Spaghetti: Choose durum wheat spaghetti for better texture. You can also use whole grain variants for higher nutritional value.
- Tuna: Opt for tuna in olive oil. The oil from the can can be used in the preparation to enhance the flavor.
- Garlic: When done well, it will add a note of flavor. If you’re a fan of stronger flavors, you can add an extra clove.
- Tomato paste: Choose a quality paste, preferably without preservatives. This will give a rich taste to the sauce.
- Basil: You can use fresh basil for a more intense flavor, but dried basil is also a good option.

Preparation technique
1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the sauce: While the pasta is boiling, take a large skillet and add the olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add the peeled and thinly sliced garlic cloves. Sauté them lightly, being careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic becomes bitter. After about 1 minute, discard the garlic from the pan.
3. Adding the tuna: Rinse the can of tuna well to remove excess oil. Place the tuna in the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it changes color and becomes flakier.
4. Creating the sauce: Add the tomato paste mixed with a little water to thin the sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine harmoniously.
5. Seasoning: After 5 minutes, remove the lid and season the sauce with freshly ground pepper and the desired amount of basil. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
6. Mixing the pasta: When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well so that the pasta is completely coated with the tuna sauce.
7. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese on top. For a more appealing look, add a few fresh basil leaves.

Serving suggestions
To make this meal even more special, you can serve the spaghetti with a fresh green salad, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing citrus-based cocktail will pair perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors of this dish.

Tips and variations
- Vegetable additions: You can add vegetables like black olives, halved cherry tomatoes, or even grated zucchini for extra texture and flavors.
- Spicy version: If you like spicy food, feel free to add chili flakes to the sauce.
- Gluten-free: If you are following a gluten-free diet, you can use rice or quinoa pasta, which are just as delicious.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
- Certainly, fresh tuna can be an excellent choice, but you will need additional cooking time. Make sure to cook it well to avoid food safety risks.

2. How can I store leftovers?
- Tuna pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze the pasta?
- It is recommended to avoid freezing cooked pasta, as the texture may be affected. However, the tuna sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutritional benefits
This tuna spaghetti recipe is an excellent nutritional choice. Tuna is a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Pasta provides complex carbohydrates that will give you the energy you need throughout the day. Additionally, garlic and basil are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Estimated calories per serving: 450-500 kcal, depending on the amount of oil and Parmesan used.

I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit! Try this simple tuna spaghetti recipe and you will discover a delicious and comforting combination, perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your loved ones!