I was obsessed with this simple Tuna Pasta recipe when I was a kid… Okay, fine, I still am!
I am unreasonably excited to share today’s recipe. When I rediscovered this one, I knew I had to share it with y’all and give you the whole backstory. As a kid, I was a picky eater, and I had a really specific palate when it came to what I did like. And one thing I was absolutely obsessed with was tuna pasta. This dish actually might have been the first thing I ever learned to cook for myself, because it was literally as simple as boiling pasta and mixing in some canned tuna. Even now, I cook this dish all the time, although I’ve learned to dress it up as an adult.
Now, I’m sure you’re thinking, Umm, canned tuna in pasta? But if there was ever a time to not knock it ‘til you try it, it would be right now! This tuna pasta is one of the easiest and fastest things I’ve ever learned to make, and while it’s a super simple and affordable meal, it ends up tasting like a gourmet Italian restaurant dish.
All you really need to make this dish a success is a package of your favorite pasta noodles, a can of tuna packed in water, and some pantry staples. However, we’re going to elevate that ingredient list with fresh parsley, garlic, lemon, Parmesan, and capers. The result is a tasty seafood pasta that will WOW your family, or any dinner guests, while saving you a ton of time and money. If you like creamy, zesty, garlicky pasta dishes, you’ll love it.
Is Tuna Pasta Healthy?
As far as pasta dishes go, this one is fairly healthy. Tuna is a good choice when it comes to protein, and the light ingredient options like olive oil and fresh herbs contribute to the overall health value of the dish. That being said, pasta is definitely high in carbs. Enjoy this dish in moderation, and don’t forget to modify the dish to meet your unique dietary needs! You can easily ditch the Parmesan cheese to make it dairy-free, or use gluten-free noodles.
Let’s Talk About Canned Tuna
Sooo… canned tuna. I know it’s not exactly a luxurious ingredient, but tuna is actually a great fish to incorporate into your diet. Tuna is low in calories and fat, but packed with important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and protein! If canned food isn’t your style, you can always take the time to cook with fresh tuna instead.
How to make ahead and store
You can store your leftover tuna pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, and easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also make your tuna mixture with capers and lemon a few hours ahead or the night before, and simply reheat and toss in your pasta when you’re ready to enjoy. Cook the pasta separately, leaving it just barely undercooked, then finish cooking it in the sauce when you’re heating it. I don’t recommend freezing this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Who eats pasta without bread, am I right? This tuna pasta pairs perfectly with a slice of Garlic Toast. This pasta dish is also best accompanied by greens, like a nice Caesar Salad or a side of Microwave Broccoli. Pro tip: add the broccoli to the pasta for a flavorful and healthy addition to the dish!
And if you are interested in eating more tuna, FFF has a ton of fun tuna-inspired recipes like Seared Tuna Tacos, Mexican Tuna Zucchini Boats, and Citrus Tuna Ceviche Bowls.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 12 ounces canned tuna in water drained
- 2 tablespoons capers drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 to 2/3 cup pasta cooking water
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Shredded or grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, drain the pasta, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the drained tuna, capers, and lemon juice. Cook until the tuna is heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with 1/2 cup pasta water. Toss well to coat the pasta with the tuna mixture. Allow the pasta water to slightly reduce, adding more if preferred.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and adjust acidity with more lemon juice if needed. Stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and additional chopped parsley.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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