tagliatelle with tuna and red sauce

Tuna Tagliatelle with Red Sauce: a Quick and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to dishes that surprise with flavor and simplicity, tuna tagliatelle with red sauce is definitely an inspired choice. This dish, full of aromas, combines simple ingredients in a way that will delight your taste buds. Whether you serve it at a romantic dinner or a family meal, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let’s discover together how to prepare this tuna tagliatelle step by step!

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

Ingredients:

- 250 g fresh tagliatelle
- 2 cans of tuna (Calvo or Rio Mare)
- 100 ml tomato sauce
- 100 g sliced olives (preferably black olives for a more pronounced contrast)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the onion)
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing Tuna Tagliatelle with Red Sauce:

Step 1: Boiling the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help flavor the pasta and prevent it from sticking. Once the water is boiling, add the fresh tagliatelle. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 3 and 5 minutes, until al dente. Then, drain them and reserve a little boiling water to adjust the sauce if necessary.

Step 2: Preparing the Tuna Sauce
While the pasta is boiling, you can focus on the sauce. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Sauté until it becomes translucent and lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Here you can add a little salt to help the onion release its juices.

Step 3: Adding the Tuna and Other Ingredients
Once the onion is ready, add the drained cans of tuna. Use a wooden spatula to break the tuna into smaller pieces so that it integrates well into the sauce. Then, add the sliced olives, tomato sauce, and lemon juice. Mix everything well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors. You can adjust the taste with salt and pepper, according to your preferences.

Step 4: Combining the Pasta with the Sauce
Once the pasta is ready, add it to the skillet over the tuna sauce. Gently mix to ensure that all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 5: Serving
Divide the tuna tagliatelle with red sauce onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley. This detail not only adds a touch of freshness but also a vibrant color to your dish. You can accompany this dish with a simple green salad and a slice of lemon on the side of the plate for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also quite nutritious. Tuna is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Olives bring antioxidants and healthy fats, while parsley adds necessary vitamins and minerals. In total, a serving has about 450-500 calories, depending on how you adjust the ingredients.

Possible Variations:
If you want to bring a new twist to the recipe, you can experiment with different ingredients. Replace the tuna with salmon or add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enrich the sauce. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Another idea would be to add spices like chili or oregano to intensify the flavors.

Serving Suggestions:
To turn this meal into a true feast, you can serve the tagliatelle with a glass of dry white wine or with fresh lemonade. A slice of crusty bread can also be a perfect accompaniment for savoring the delicious sauce left on the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of traditional tagliatelle?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice to add fiber and extra nutrients. Make sure to adjust the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may need a little longer.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a quick work dinner?
Absolutely! With a total time of about 25 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick meal after a long day at work.

3. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet?
You can replace the tuna with marinated tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplants, which will add texture and flavor.

Of course, every recipe has a story, and this one is about finding a balance between taste and simplicity. Perhaps you’ve had a long day and want something that doesn’t require much time in the kitchen, or maybe you want to impress someone dear with a tasty meal without stressing too much. Whatever the reason, tuna tagliatelle with red sauce is the perfect choice. So, enjoy your meal and happy cooking!