Mussels with thyme and tomato sauce
Delicious Recipe: Shells with Tuna and Tomato Sauce
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Overview:
Who doesn't love pasta? This simple and quick dish, shells with tuna and tomato sauce, is perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal full of flavor. Inspired by a little girl's desire to enjoy her favorite dish cooked by her father, this recipe brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients. So, let’s get started!
Necessary Ingredients:
- 400 g of shells (pasta)
- 300 g of canned tuna (in oil, drained)
- 300 ml of tomatoes in puree
- 5 cloves of garlic (or onion, if you prefer)
- 200 g of grated cheese (or Parmesan for a stronger taste)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Details:
- Shells: These pasta are very versatile and can be cooked in countless ways. Choose a type of pasta you prefer, but shells are ideal due to their shape that holds the sauce.
- Tuna: Opt for canned tuna in oil for a richer taste. You can also use tuna in water, but it will be less flavorful.
- Tomatoes in puree: Use high-quality tomatoes, as they will significantly influence the taste of the sauce.
- Garlic: Adds a note of flavor and depth to the dish. If you prefer a sweeter alternative, onion is an excellent option.
- Cheese: Cheese adds a pleasant creaminess, but Parmesan will enhance the dish's flavor.
Preparation Technique:
1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the shells and let them cook according to the package instructions (about 10 minutes). Make sure to drain them well after cooking and save a little pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it. If using onion, sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the tuna and tomatoes: Put the drained tuna in the pan, mixing well, then add the tomatoes in puree. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water.
4. Final combination: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is ready, combine them in a large bowl. Gently mix them so that the sauce distributes evenly.
5. Serving: Sprinkle grated cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor.
Useful Tips:
- If you want a healthier version, you can add vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the sauce. They will cook quickly and add extra nutrients.
- A refined serving option would be to add some black olives or capers for a Mediterranean taste.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the tomato sauce.
Possible Variations:
- Creamy sauce: Replace the tomatoes with heavy cream and add fresh basil for a creamier and more aromatic sauce.
- No fish: If you're not a fan of tuna, you can use cooked chicken or even grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Tuna provides quality protein, while pasta offers essential carbohydrates for energy. Garlic and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, making this dish a healthy choice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for added fiber and nutrients.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and the next day you can reheat them, adding a little olive oil to prevent drying out.
Conclusion:
Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to start cooking and enjoy this simple and tasty recipe of shells with tuna and tomato sauce. It’s a perfect choice for a quick dinner, but also an excellent way to bring the family together at the table. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 400 g of shells (pasta) 300 g of tuna 300 ml of tomatoes in broth 5 cloves of garlic 200 g of grated cheese olive oil oregano salt pepper
