Pasta con Tonno: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Pasta con Tonno, or Pasta with Tuna, is a classic Italian dish that combines the convenience of pantry ingredients with delightful flavors. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste and dietary needs. From my own personal experience, this recipe has become a family favorite, as it requires minimal effort while delivering great taste.

Let me show you how I make Pasta con Tonno.

Notes on What to Expect

When preparing Pasta con Tonno, you can expect a quick, satisfying meal with a balance of protein and carbohydrates. The combination of tuna and tomatoes creates a savory sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. This dish is perfect for those who are new to cooking, as it requires minimal ingredients and steps, yet results in a delicious homemade meal.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Around $10
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main dish

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Can opener (if using canned tuna)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory   #pastacontonno  here.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 400g (14 oz) of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• Canned Tuna: 2 cans (about 300g or 10.5 oz total), drained (preferably in olive oil for flavor)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Cherry Tomatoes: 200g (7 oz), halved (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
• Capers: 2 tablespoons, drained (optional)
• Fresh Parsley: A handful, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for some heat
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory   #pastacontonno  here.

Method

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
   • Add the cherry tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
3. Add Tuna and Capers:
   • Stir in the drained tuna and capers, gently breaking up the tuna with a fork.
   • Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot, with grated cheese on top if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace tuna with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian dish.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.

Tips and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Canned Fish Alternatives: Sardines or mackerel can be used instead of tuna for a different flavor profile.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory   #pastacontonno  here.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

Have you tried it before?

Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below.

I hope this guide has made making Pasta con Tonno seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please leave your honest comment. Enjoy your cooking adventure!