Spaghetti With Tuna
A quick and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tuna, tomato sauce, and fresh herbs, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the tuna and reserve the oil.
- Place the reserved oil in a saucepan and heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook over low heat until lightly browned.
- Add the tuna and tomato sauce to the saucepan.
- Cook over low heat for about 15 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced parsley to the sauce.
- Serve the tuna sauce over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh garlic instead of chopped garlic, or experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano. If you want a lighter dish, substitute tuna in oil with tuna in water, but keep in mind the sauce might need additional seasoning. For a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas instead of tuna. This recipe pairs beautifully with Diane'S Marinara Sauce for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna sauce over al dente spaghetti, and garnish with additional parsley for color. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully. This dish also goes well with Italian recipes like Antipasto Spread for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to prevent the dish from drying out. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Tuna contains roughly 296 calories, with 20g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), and potassium (83% of the Daily Value). At about 296 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 properly before adding it to the sauce. Sear the tuna in the reserved oil until cooked through, then flake it into the sauce. This will enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
What type of spaghetti is best for this recipe?
While traditional spaghetti works great, you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier alternative. The key is to cook the pasta until al dente to hold up well against the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce. You can also mix in finely chopped jalapeños or use a spicy tomato sauce, like Til'S Marinara Sauce, for an extra kick.
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).