Description
This quick and flavorful 20-Minute Stovetop Tuna Pasta is perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Combining tender pasta with savory tuna, garlic, and a hint of lemon, this dish offers a delightful balance of tastes and textures. With optional ingredients like red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese, you can customize it to your liking. Ready in just 20 minutes and serving four, it’s an easy, satisfying, and wholesome dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Wet and Fresh Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in oil or water, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Sauté Garlic and Peppers: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tuna and Seasoning: Stir in the drained tuna, breaking it up gently with a spoon. Sprinkle in the oregano or Italian seasoning and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tuna to warm through.
- Combine Pasta and Tuna Mixture: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tuna mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the mixture feels dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Add Fresh Elements and Seasoning: Stir in the lemon juice and fresh chopped parsley, if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Serve: Transfer to plates or bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your quick, delicious meal.
Notes
- You can use tuna packed in either oil or water, depending on your preference; using tuna in oil adds extra flavor.
- Reserve pasta water is useful to adjust the sauce consistency; don’t skip it.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a creamy, salty finish to the dish.
- Fresh parsley enhances freshness but can be omitted or substituted with basil or cilantro.
