Print

Tuna Pesto Pasta Recipe

4.5 from 508 reviews

A flavorful and quick Tuna Pesto Pasta recipe combining al dente spaghetti with savory tuna chunks, aromatic basil pesto, and a hint of spicy red pepper flakes for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz. Spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp Salt

Sauce

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add salt and spaghetti. Cook until al dente or according to package instructions, then drain while reserving some pasta water.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped red onions and minced garlic, stir-frying for 1.5 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add Spices and Capers: Incorporate red pepper flakes, black pepper, and capers into the skillet. Stir-fry together for an additional 30 seconds to release flavors.
  4. Add Tuna: Lower the heat to low. Add tuna chunks to the skillet and gently flake them with a cooking spoon to desired size. Stir well to combine evenly.
  5. Combine Pesto and Pasta: Add basil pesto and the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients.
  6. Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and let the sauce thicken slightly for a minute. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  • Use good-quality basil pesto for the best flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes quantity based on your spice preference.
  • This recipe works well with other types of pasta such as linguine or fettuccine.
  • You can substitute fresh tuna or other canned fish like salmon if preferred.

Keywords: Tuna Pesto Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Italian Pasta, Tuna Recipes, Basil Pesto, Easy Dinner