Name: Tuna Pesto Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz. Spaghetti; 1 tbsp Salt; 1/2 cup Basil Pesto; 7 oz. Canned Tuna Chunks; 1/4 cup Red Onions, chopped; 2 tsp Garlic, minced or chopped; 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tbsp Capers; 2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes; 1 tsp Black Pepper

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Introduction

This Tuna Pesto Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender spaghetti with savory tuna chunks and aromatic basil pesto. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, it brings together simple ingredients for a deliciously vibrant pasta.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with three nests of spaghetti pasta tossed with a mix of greenish-black pesto, small pieces of pink salmon, and scattered bits of red onion. The spaghetti is light yellow, slightly glossy, and coated evenly with the textured pesto sauce. The surface beneath the bowl has a white marbled texture with a small part of a white plate visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz. spaghetti
7 oz. canned tuna chunks
1/2 cup basil pesto
1 tbsp. capers
1/4 cup red onions, chopped
2 tsp. garlic, minced or chopped
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 tbsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the salt and spaghetti. Cook until al dente, following package instructions if needed.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, stir frying for about 1 and a half minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add red pepper flakes, black pepper, and capers to the skillet. Stir fry for an additional 30 seconds to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the tuna chunks and gently flake them with a spoon to your preferred size. Mix well with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Stir in the basil pesto along with the cooked spaghetti and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water. Mix thoroughly, then turn off the heat and let the sauce thicken for about a minute.
Step 6: Serve immediately, enjoying the perfect blend of pesto and tuna with every bite.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh basil pesto if available for a brighter, fresher flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or some lemon zest to brighten the dish.
For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
Swap spaghetti for penne or fusilli to better hold the sauce.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

A plate with a textured green color holds a small mound of spaghetti pasta, twisted neatly in the center. The pasta is light yellow with a slight shine, mixed with small bits of herbs and red pepper flakes scattered throughout. On top of the spaghetti sits a fresh, bright green basil leaf cluster, adding a pop of fresh color. Around the pasta on the plate are small pieces of herbs and possibly bits of garlic or dried vegetables, adding texture. A silver fork rests on the edge of the plate. The plate is set on a beige cloth on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Sear it briefly in the pan before flaking and mixing it into the sauce. Adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Yes, reserving some pasta water helps loosen the sauce and allows it to coat the pasta evenly, enhancing the texture and flavor of the dish.