Pasta with Tuna and Tomato Sauce

This delightful pasta dish combines the rich flavors of tuna, tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked onions to create a simple yet satisfying meal. It's an ideal choice for a quick dinner, especially when time is of the essence. The harmony of ingredients delivers a comforting taste that appeals to both adults and children—even those who typically shy away from fish. This versatile recipe allows for various customizations, making it suitable for different palates. The dish is enhanced with a touch of thyme, adding an aromatic finish. It's a wonderful choice for a family meal and can be paired with a variety of side dishes for added flair. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, preparation is straightforward, resulting in a deliciously enticing dish. Serve it hot and enjoy the savory blend of ingredients that come together beautifully in every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Half a package of pasta
Two cans of tuna in oil
Large onion
2-3 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices and Sauces

A little oil for sautéing onions
Salt
Optional: thyme

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Onions: In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Chop the onion finely and add it to the pan, sautéing until golden brown.
Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato paste to the sautéed onions, stirring well to combine.
Add Tuna: Open the canned tuna and decide whether to drain the oil or retain it for extra flavor. Add the tuna to the pan.
Season with Thyme: Sprinkle a bit of thyme over the mixture for added aroma and flavor.
Blend Flavors: Allow the mixture to cook slightly, stirring occasionally, until the tuna begins to bubble.
Introduce the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the pan, thoroughly mixing it with the sauce so that every piece is coated.
Simmer Together: Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Final Touches: Uncover and stir one final time to ensure even heat distribution and amalgamation of flavors.
Serve Hot: Immediately plate the pasta when ready, serving it steaming hot.

Tips

Substitute with Fresh Tomatoes: For a fresher taste, use chopped fresh tomatoes instead of paste.
Add Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.

Nutritions

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 28g
Fats: 10g
Carbs: 60g

Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace tuna with chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad.
Complement with crusty garlic bread.
Serve a chilled glass of white wine for an elegant touch.

Best Places

Osteria Francescana - Known for its unique twist on traditional dishes. Location: 22 Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Le Bernardin - Offers exquisite seafood dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
Gaggan - Famous for its innovative Indian cuisine. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
Mirazur - Celebrated for its sublime coastal flavors. Location: 30 Avenue Aristide Briand, Menton, France.
Attica - Renowned for its creative and sustainable offerings. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
Central - Highlights Peruvian biodiversity in its recipes. Location: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Lima, Peru.
Mugaritz - Offers avant-garde and experimental dishes. Location: Aldura Aldea, Aldura Gunea, San Sebastián, Spain.
Eleven Madison Park - Delightful farm-to-table experience. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, USA.
Pujol - Celebrated for its transformative Mexican dining. Location: Tennyson 133, Mexico City, Mexico.
The Jane - Situated in a historic chapel with modern cuisine. Location: Paradeplein 1, Antwerp, Belgium.

This recipe captures the savory essence of tuna paired with the smooth richness of tomato and pasta, a dish both simple and universally appealing. Enjoy the experience of making and savoring this delicious meal!