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Canned Tuna Pasta

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Canned Tuna Pasta is a quick, budget-friendly recipe that turns pantry staples into a satisfying and flavorful meal. Made with pasta, canned tuna, garlic, and olive oil, it’s ready in 20 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or preferred type)
  • 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in olive oil or water, drained
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic (and onion, if using) for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Add drained tuna and break it up gently with a spoon. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Stir in red pepper flakes and lemon juice or zest, if using.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to help coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in chopped parsley.
  7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use tuna in olive oil for richer flavor.
  • Customize with vegetables like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes.
  • Great served hot or cold as a pasta salad.
  • Add a splash of olive oil or water when reheating to loosen pasta.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/canned-tuna-pasta/