Tuna Italiano
A creamy tuna pasta bake with savory mushroom soup, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic oregano, perfect for comforting family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook chopped onions with crushed oregano in margarine until tender.
- Blend in the cream of mushroom soup.
- Add cooked elbow macaroni, chopped canned tomatoes, and drained tuna.
- Heat, stirring now and then, until heated through.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute the margarine with butter. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, a homemade version using cream, mushrooms, and broth works well. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tuna Italiano with a light side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are excellent for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or a vegetable medley. It also pairs beautifully with Tuna Salad On A Shoestring for a delightful seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Italiano contains roughly 687 calories, with 29g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% 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, fresh tuna can be used instead of canned. Just cook it thoroughly before adding it to the dish. Sauté the diced fresh tuna with the onions and oregano until it's cooked through, then continue with the recipe as directed. This will enhance the flavor and give a fresher taste to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with chickpeas or a plant-based protein like tofu. Simply mash the chickpeas or cube the tofu and sauté them with the onions and spices. This will keep the dish hearty while making it suitable for vegetarians.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce when cooking the onions. You could also mix in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the oregano. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance for a flavorful 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).