Looking for a quick and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor? This Garlic and Olive Oil Tuna Pasta is your answer. It’s a deliciously simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re just craving something quick yet fulfilling. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store.
Imagine al dente pasta tossed with savory garlic, rich olive oil, and tender chunks of tuna. The result? A satisfying, savory dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about enjoying every bite.
This dish is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, combining the richness of olive oil with the robust taste of garlic and the heartiness of tuna. It’s a perfect go-to meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality, no matter how busy your day gets.
Ingredients Overview
Preparing a delightful dish begins with gathering the right ingredients. For this pasta, you’ll need spaghetti or any preferred type of pasta, along with canned tuna packed in olive oil. The garlic is essential, thinly sliced to ensure it releases its flavor during cooking.
Extra virgin olive oil serves as the base for sautéing the garlic and melding the flavors together. A pinch of red pepper flakes can be included for those who enjoy a hint of heat. Finally, fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and a wedge of lemon on the side elevates the dish with its zest.
The Cooking Process
Begin by cooking your pasta. Boil a generous pot of salted water and add the spaghetti. Follow the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Remember to save a bit of the cooking water for later, as it can help create a silky sauce.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Introduce the sliced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, allowing them to sauté until the garlic turns golden and aromatic. This step is crucial, as it builds a foundation for the dish’s flavor profile.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the garlic is sautéed, it’s time to add the tuna. Gently break it into chunks as you stir it into the pan, letting it warm through. Then, incorporate the drained pasta, using some reserved cooking water to achieve a cohesive texture.
Mix thoroughly to ensure every strand of pasta is coated with the garlic-infused olive oil. This blending of ingredients results in a comforting and hearty dish, where each bite brims with flavor and richness.
Seasoning to Taste
As you finish up, season the mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The seasoning is fundamental, balancing the flavors of the garlic and tuna. For an extra brightness, squeeze in some lemon juice, which accentuates the dish beautifully.
Finally, fold in chopped parsley, which not only provides a pop of color but also freshness. This step makes your plate visually appealing, inviting you to dig in and savor the comforting flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, plate the pasta warm, garnished with additional parsley for a lively touch. The lemon wedge can be placed on the side, allowing each person to add a burst of citrus as they wish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner at home or a casual gathering. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends, the rustic charm of this pasta is sure to please.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pasta dish can be enjoyed the next day, and the flavors often deepen. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to bring back its original consistency.
Enjoying this garlic and olive oil tuna pasta is not just about the meal itself, but also about the warmth and comfort that comes from sharing it with others. Embrace the simplicity and the heartiness of this delightful dish, perfect for any weeknight occasion.
Delicious Garlic and Olive Oil Tuna Pasta Recipe
This Tuna Pasta is a delightful mixture of pasta, garlic, and olive oil, creating a comforting yet light meal. The tuna adds protein and a savory element that complements the garlic beautifully, making it both nourishing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté until the garlic is golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained tuna to the skillet, breaking it into chunks. Stir in the cooked pasta and some reserved pasta water to create a smoother sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if desired. Toss in chopped parsley for freshness, and serve immediately, garnished with more parsley if you like.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2-3 servings
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
