Tuna And Macaroni Toss
A creamy tuna and macaroni dish with tender pasta, savory flavors, and colorful pimentos, perfect for quick family dinners or comforting lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bow tie macaroni according to package instructions and drain. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook until tender.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, chicken bouillon cube, salt, and pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the drained and flaked tuna and drained pimentos. Heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the sauce before mixing in the tuna and pimentos. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter works as a great substitute. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference, and feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tuna And Macaroni Toss warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken Breasts or Spicy Buffalo Wings for a delicious family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna And Macaroni Toss contains roughly 900 calories, with 28g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2279mg per serving (99% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bow tie macaroni is the suggested pasta, you can easily substitute it with other shapes like rotini, penne, or even whole grain varieties. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the flour used is a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. The rest of the ingredients, like tuna and pimentos, are naturally gluten-free.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as garlic powder or paprika into the sauce. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a rich, cheesy taste. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the overall flavor profile 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).