Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as quick to make as it is delicious? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our Spicy Tuna and Tomato Pasta! This vibrant recipe combines the rich flavors of tuna and tomatoes with a kick of red pepper, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a tantalizing dish that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce for 5-6 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and develop deeper flavors.
- Drain the canned tuna and gently fold it into the tomato sauce, breaking up any large chunks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti completely.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the tuna and tomato sauce. Toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for a different texture.
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tuna and diced tomatoes for the best flavor. Opt for tuna packed in olive oil for an extra layer of richness.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For those who love heat, consider adding fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water can help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Garnishing with fresh basil not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prepping! Simply store the pasta and sauce separately in the fridge and combine them when ready to eat.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian experience that will impress your family and friends.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 615kcal
Carbohydrates: 80g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
