Tuna With Spaghetti

Cook: 10 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Italian

A hearty tuna and spaghetti dish featuring savory tomato sauce, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or satisfying family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 20 oz. tuna
  • 16 oz. spaghetti
  • 3/4 cup chopped onion
  • 3/4 cup chopped green pepper
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 20 oz. tomato sauce
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 3/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp. oregano
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper

Instructions

  1. Saute the chopped onion and green pepper in olive oil in a large frying pan.
  2. Mix in the tuna, tomato sauce, water, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook the mixture for 10 minutes.
  4. Pour the tuna mixture over cooked spaghetti and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding capers or olives to the tuna mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the olive oil with vegetable broth. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. If you have fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, they can enhance the dish's aroma. This recipe is versatile and can easily adapt to other seafood recipes, such as a shrimp variation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, consider pairing it with a chilled white wine. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can add extra flavor, too. This dish also pairs beautifully with Shrimp Linguine Salad for a seafood-inspired feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the tuna sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the leftovers in a covered dish, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tuna With Spaghetti contains roughly 661 calories, with 23g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (168% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), and calcium (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1575mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).

661 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.7g 45% DV
Total Fat 18.9g 24% DV
Carbs 117.1g 43% DV
Fiber 37.8g 100% DV
Sugar 9.3g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1574.6mg 68% DV
Potassium 1278.1mg 27% DV
Cholesterol 4.8mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 77.1mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 52.2mg 58% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1257.4mg 97% DV
Iron 30.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Fish

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 canned tuna instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tuna works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure to drain it well before mixing it with the other ingredients. Canned tuna is convenient and still packed with flavor, making it a great choice for quick meals.

What can I substitute for spaghetti?

If you're looking for alternatives to spaghetti, consider using zoodles (zucchini noodles) or gluten-free pasta. Both options will work well with the tuna sauce and can cater to dietary preferences while maintaining the dish's integrity.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sautéed onions and peppers. You can also incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the tuna mixture for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a customized flavor.

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).

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