Angel Hair Spaghetti With Tuna Sauce
Angel hair spaghetti coated in a light tuna and parsley sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese—an easy, flavorful dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water for 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil, add tuna and chopped parsley.
- Add salt and pepper; cook for 5 minutes on medium heat.
- Add sliced garlic and cook for 2 minutes more, avoiding burning the garlic.
- Drain spaghetti and place in a large bowl.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti with the tuna sauce.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve. Add more cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use less olive oil or substitute with a spray oil. If you prefer a different protein, canned salmon or even chickpeas can work well instead of tuna. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor profile. Ensure to cook the garlic until fragrant to avoid bitterness, which can happen if it burns. This dish is also great with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors. For a heartier option, try it alongside Shrimp With Pizzaiola Sauce for an Italian feast. Don't forget to sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or water to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Angel Hair Spaghetti With Tuna Sauce contains roughly 178 calories, with 19g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2090mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce. Fresh tuna will require a different cooking time and method. Searing or grilling it beforehand can add a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular angel hair spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta option available at most grocery stores. Be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different requirements.
What can I add to the sauce for more flavor?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of white wine while cooking the sauce for added depth. Additionally, incorporating olives or capers can provide a briny contrast that complements the tuna nicely, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).