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Simple Tuna Pasta

Discover the magic of Simple Tuna Pasta a quick 20 minute meal perfect for busy weeknights that uses pantry staples and is always a hit
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
  • 2 cans 5 oz each tuna in olive oil (or water, drained)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version) or 14 oz canned diced tomatoes (for tomato version)
  • to garnish fresh parsley
  • to taste lemon juice (optional)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with about 4 quarts of water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring to a boil.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Mince 3 to 4 cloves of garlic and add them to the heated oil, cooking until fragrant and barely golden.
  4. Add the drained tuna to the skillet with the garlic and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.
  5. If making the creamy version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. For the tomato version, add 14 oz of diced tomatoes.
  6. Cook the sauce on low heat while waiting for the pasta to finish.
  7. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, usually 1 minute less than recommended.
  8. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  9. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine.
  10. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
  11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  12. Let the dish rest on low heat for about a minute, allowing flavors to meld.
  13. Add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a creamier dish, use heavy cream or cream cheese. For a lighter version, replace cream with canned diced tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes. To add more flavor, incorporate vegetables like frozen peas or spinach while mixing. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days; reheat with a splash of water to revive moisture. This recipe is adaptable for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta.
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