Tuna Spaghetti
A creamy tuna spaghetti with garlic, olives, and herbs offers a comforting, savory meal perfect for weeknights and seafood lovers seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, cook garlic in margarine until golden brown.
- Stir in half and half, dried basil, and dried oregano; heat to boiling.
- Stir in drained tuna, sliced pimento-stuffed olives, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Boil and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour the sauce over hot cooked spaghetti.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you don't have pimento-stuffed olives, green olives or capers can be great substitutes. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried for a brighter taste. This recipe can easily be adapted to include other seafood, making it a great option for seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna spaghetti with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes that feature light tomato or cream-based sauces, enhancing the overall dining experience. Consider serving with a glass of white wine for a delightful accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to the pasta and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Spaghetti contains roughly 331 calories, with 11g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg per serving (30% 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 you will need to cook it first. Sear or grill the tuna until it’s just cooked through, then flake it and add it to the sauce. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a different texture compared to canned tuna.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Just ensure you cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions for the best results. The sauce will pair well with these alternatives, maintaining the recipe's flavor profile.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make the dish more filling, consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also incorporate protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also complement the flavors of the tuna spaghetti beautifully.
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).