Tone spirals

Tuna Spiral Pasta: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Desserts can be wonderful, but sometimes it’s important to enjoy a quick and healthy main dish. Today, I invite you to prepare tuna spirals, an easy pasta recipe that combines the delicious flavors of the sea with the fresh aromas of tomatoes. It’s a perfect option for a family dinner or to impress your friends at a casual meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 350 g spiral pasta
- 1 can of tuna (chunks or flaked)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2-3 cherry tomatoes
- Salt, pepper, and chili (to taste)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cooking the pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water is boiling, add the spirals and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10-15 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent. It’s essential not to brown it but to soften it to bring the necessary sweetness to the sauce.

3. Adding the tomatoes:
Add the tomato paste and mix well, then add the sliced cherry tomatoes. Pour in 150 ml of water and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. The cherry tomatoes not only add a pleasant appearance but also a fresh taste.

4. Incorporating the tuna:
After the sauce has simmered, season it with salt, pepper, and chili to taste. Add the drained tuna, cut into pieces, and gently stir to incorporate it into the sauce. Let it simmer together for a few minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.

5. Finishing the dish:
When the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Then, add it to the skillet with the tuna sauce and gently mix to ensure each spiral is well coated with sauce.

6. Serving:
Serve the tuna spirals immediately, warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This will not only add a touch of freshness but will also enhance the dish visually.

Useful tips:
- Types of tuna: You can use tuna in oil or in water, depending on your preference. Tuna in oil will add more flavor, while tuna in water will be lighter.
- Variations: Add green or black olives for a more intense flavor. You can also replace parsley with fresh basil or oregano for a different aroma.
- Suitable drinks: This dish pairs well with a dry white wine, which will balance the rich flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional information:
Each serving of tuna spirals is rich in protein due to the tuna, and the pasta provides complex carbohydrates essential for energy. Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, offering heart health benefits. This recipe is relatively light, with around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can try adding zucchini or spinach for a touch of greenery.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add chili flakes to the sauce or a chili sauce for an extra kick.

Personal note:
This tuna spiral recipe reminds me of evenings spent with family, enjoying simple yet flavorful meals. It’s a recipe that brings together staple ingredients, transforming them into a quick and tasty meal. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, I hope it brings you the same joy it brings me. Enjoy your meal!