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Canned Tuna Pasta

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A quick, comforting, and flavorful pasta dish made with pantry staples like canned tuna, garlic, olive oil, and lemon. Perfect for busy weeknights and ready in under 20 minutes.

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)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and onion (if using), and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add drained tuna, break it up with a fork, and let it warm through in the oil.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet.
  7. Toss everything together with lemon juice and zest.
  8. Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
  9. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use tuna in olive oil for richer flavor, or add extra olive oil if using water-packed tuna.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  • Make it dairy-free by skipping the Parmesan or using a vegan alternative.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of water or olive oil.

Nutrition

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