Tuna salad with penne in tomato sauce

Penne Salad with Tuna and Spicy Tomato Sauce

I propose a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick meal or a light lunch with friends. This penne salad with tuna and spicy tomato sauce is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Plus, it can be prepared in record time, giving you more time to enjoy the company of loved ones. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients
For the salad:
- 400 g penne
- 350 g tuna in oil (canned)
- 300 g corn (one can)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt, to taste

For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 150 ml water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of hot pepper sauce (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Recipe History
Pasta salads have become increasingly popular in recent decades, especially due to their versatility. They can be consumed warm or cold and can be customized with a variety of ingredients. Combining pasta with tuna and vegetables is not only tasty but also an excellent way to add protein and fiber to your diet.

Preparing the Penne
1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Cooling the pasta: Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to prevent the pasta from sticking and to maintain its firm texture.

Preparing the Spicy Tomato Sauce
3. Mix the ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the tomato paste, water, olive oil, and hot pepper sauce. Add a pinch of sugar and salt, to taste.
4. Cook the sauce: Place the saucepan over low heat and let the mixture come to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to boil, let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Assembling the Salad
5. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked penne, hot tomato sauce, and mix well. Allow the salad to cool to room temperature.
6. Add the tuna and corn: Once the salad has cooled, add the tuna (along with the oil from the can) and corn. Flake the tuna with a fork to distribute it evenly.
7. Season: Chop the fresh parsley and add it to the salad, along with the lemon juice and salt, to taste. Mix everything well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Serving
8. Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a more attractive appearance and added aroma. The penne salad with tuna is served cold and is ideal as an appetizer or main dish.

Serving Suggestions
This penne salad with tuna pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of garlic toast. You can serve it with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade for a perfect meal.

Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the tuna with marinated tofu or white beans for a vegetarian option.
- Delicious additions: Experiment with adding olives, roasted red peppers, or cucumbers for extra texture and flavors.
- Customized tomato sauce: Add herbs like oregano or thyme to adapt the sauce to your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! Any type of short pasta will work, such as fusilli or farfalle.
2. Is this salad suitable for a diet? Yes, it is a healthy option, rich in protein and fiber, and can be adapted for various diets.
3. How long can it be stored in the fridge? It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Nutritional Benefits
This penne salad with tuna is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the tuna, and contains complex carbohydrates from the pasta, which will provide you with the necessary energy throughout the day. Additionally, corn and parsley add essential vitamins and minerals.

Calories
A serving of penne salad with tuna contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used.

This recipe is perfect for days when you need something quick and tasty without compromising quality. Get ready to surprise your family and friends with a pasta salad that combines simplicity with delicious flavors! Enjoy your meal!