Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of a 25-minute recipe? Look no further than this sensational Tuna Pasta and Dill! Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, studded with tender, flaky tuna, and brightened by the fresh, aromatic punch of dill. This Italian-inspired dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary escape that will transport your taste buds to the sunny coastlines of Italy, all while saving you precious time in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- While the water is heating, prepare your ingredients. Drain the can of tuna and set it aside in a mixing bowl. Chop the fresh dill finely and set it aside as well.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 200g of pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, in a separate small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This will add flavor to the dish.
- After the oil is heated, add the drained tuna to the skillet. Gently break it up with a fork and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to warm through and absorb the oil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tuna. Toss gently to combine, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors from the tuna and olive oil.
- Next, add the chopped fresh dill and the juice of 1 lemon to the pasta and tuna mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the Tuna Pasta and Dill warm, garnished with additional dill if desired, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the right pasta: While this recipe works with most pasta shapes, short pasta like penne or fusilli catches the tuna and dill beautifully.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente texture by following package instructions and tasting a minute before the suggested cooking time.
- Use high-quality tuna: Opt for solid or chunk tuna packed in olive oil for maximum flavor and richness.
- Fresh is best: If possible, use fresh dill instead of dried. The bright, herbal notes will elevate your dish dramatically.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that helps the ingredients cling together.
- Season gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end to ensure perfect seasoning without over-salting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
