Spicy pasta with tuna and zucchini

Spicy Pasta with Tuna and Zucchini

Who doesn't love a bowl full of delicious, flavorful, and colorful pasta? Today's recipe, spicy pasta with tuna and zucchini, is not only a quick and simple choice but also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh vegetables. This recipe can easily be adapted to personal preferences, making it perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 250 g tuna in olive oil (drained)
- 500 g fresh tomatoes (diced)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 zucchini (diced)
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme (finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 chili pepper (sliced thinly)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Dice the zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes, and slice the chili pepper thinly. Make sure the tuna is well-drained from the oil it came in.

2. Cooking the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the water (about a tablespoon), and when it starts boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced zucchini. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly golden. Then add the bell pepper and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

4. Adding the tomatoes and chili pepper: Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes and sliced chili pepper to the skillet. Mix well and let everything simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finishing the dish: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the drained tuna and gently mix to avoid breaking it up too much. Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet, stirring everything carefully to combine the flavors. Finally, sprinkle finely chopped thyme for an extra touch of flavor.

6. Serving: Once everything is well mixed and heated, serve the spicy pasta with tuna and zucchini immediately. You can drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top for an even more intense flavor.

Useful tips:
- Variations of ingredients: You can add black olives for a saltier taste or feta cheese for a creamy note. You can also substitute the tuna with smoked salmon or cooked chicken for a delicious alternative.
- Ideal pairings: This pasta goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon and olive oil, or with a glass of dry white wine to complement the dish's flavors.
- Nutritional information: The recipe contains carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the tuna, and vegetables full of vitamins. It’s a balanced meal that provides a good supply of nutrients and energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option, offering more fiber and nutrients.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute the tuna with a can of chickpeas or marinated tofu.
3. How spicy will the pasta be? The amount of chili pepper can be adjusted according to your preferences; you can reduce or eliminate the chili if you prefer a milder version.

This spicy pasta with tuna and zucchini recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dinner after a long day. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!