Name: Canned Tuna Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine); 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; 1 tsp lemon zest; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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This Canned Tuna Pasta is a quick, comforting, and flavorful dish that comes together in minutes using pantry staples. I love how simple yet satisfying it is — tender pasta tossed with tuna, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of lemon for brightness. It’s one of those go-to meals I make when I need something delicious, nutritious, and fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s budget-friendly, easy to customize, and ready in under 20 minutes. The tuna adds protein and richness, while the olive oil, garlic, and lemon create a light but flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it’s simple but feels comforting and hearty. I also love that I can dress it up with whatever I have on hand — capers, olives, chili flakes, or fresh herbs. Canned Tuna Pasta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine work well)
Canned tuna (in olive oil or water, drained)
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped (optional)
Lemon juice and zest
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to package directions until al dente. I reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the garlic (and onion, if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
I add the drained tuna and use a fork to break it up, letting it warm through in the oil.
I season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little spice.
I add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
I toss everything together, adding lemon juice and zest for brightness.
I stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
I serve it warm, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if I like.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook — so in just 20 minutes, I can have a simple, flavorful meal ready to enjoy.

Variations

I sometimes add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
For a Mediterranean touch, I mix in olives, capers, and a pinch of oregano.
I love using chili flakes and a dash of white wine for a spicy, aromatic version.
To make it creamy, I stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving.
I occasionally use canned salmon or sardines instead of tuna for a change.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to loosen it up. I avoid microwaving too long so the tuna doesn’t dry out. Canned Tuna Pasta

FAQs

Can I use tuna in water instead of oil?

Yes, but I like adding a bit more olive oil for richness if I use water-packed tuna.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

I prefer long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, but short shapes like penne or fusilli work great too.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely — I often toss in spinach, peas, or zucchini for color and nutrition.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How can I make it more filling?

I sometimes add white beans, chickpeas, or a handful of breadcrumbs toasted in olive oil for extra texture and protein.

Conclusion

This Canned Tuna Pasta is one of my favorite quick and easy meals — light, flavorful, and made entirely from pantry staples. I love how versatile it is and how it always feels satisfying without being heavy. Whether I make it plain and simple or add a few extras, it’s the perfect meal for busy days when I want something homemade and delicious in no time.