Penne with tuna

Delicious Tuna Penne Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make recipe, tuna penne is the perfect choice. This dish will remind you of sunny days when a simple lunch turns into a savory feast. The combination of pasta, tuna, and a delicious tomato sauce will delight the taste buds of the whole family. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g penne
- 1 can (about 200 g) tuna in oil, drained
- 200 g tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 100 g green or black olives, pitted
- 50 g grated feta cheese (optional, for serving)
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

History and Inspiration:
Tuna pasta is a recipe that has spread worldwide, becoming a staple in many households. This simple combination of ingredients is not only tasty but also nutritious, thanks to the protein content in tuna and the vitamins from the vegetables. Over time, tuna penne has evolved, adding various ingredients based on culinary preferences. The recipe we propose today is simple and can be easily adapted to individual tastes.

Step by Step:

1. Boil the pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and, once the water is boiling, add the penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so they don't stick together. Once done, drain them and reserve a little cooking water for later use if necessary.

2. Prepare the sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and bell pepper slices. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

3. Add the tomato paste:
Next, add the tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the garlic and bell pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently, reducing the heat, for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens. This step is essential as it will intensify the flavors of the sauce.

4. Season:
Add salt, pepper, and thyme to the tomato sauce. If desired, you can also add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes.

5. Incorporate the tuna:
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained tuna and olives. Gently stir to avoid breaking the tuna too much. Let it simmer together for 2-3 minutes so that the tuna heats up and the flavors meld.

6. Combine the pasta with the sauce:
Add the cooked penne to the skillet, mixing well to coat them evenly with the sauce. If the mixture is too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water. Continue cooking for 1 minute to allow the flavors to blend.

7. Serve with feta:
Turn off the heat and transfer the tuna penne to plates. Sprinkle grated feta cheese on top for a salty and creamy flavor. This detail will add an extra touch of taste and texture to the dish.

Useful Tips:
- If you want a spicier version, add chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as fusilli or spaghetti, to diversify the recipe.
- This dish can be served with a fresh green salad or a flavorful focaccia for a complete lunch.
- If you have fresh tuna, you can grill or pan-fry it, then add it to the tomato sauce for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
This dish provides a good source of protein and healthy fats, and the combination of vegetables and pasta makes it a balanced choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use tuna in oil or in water?
Of course! Tuna in water is lower in calories, but tuna in oil offers a richer and creamier taste.
- What type of pasta works best?
Penne is ideal due to its shape, which holds the sauce, but you can try any other type of pasta you prefer.
- How can I adapt this recipe for vegans?
You can omit the tuna and add salted tofu or mushrooms for an umami flavor. Replace feta cheese with a vegan substitute.

Tuna penne is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring smiles to the table. Experiment with your favorite version, add a touch of creativity, and enjoy every bite! This dish is perfect for a quick dinner during the week or to impress friends at a casual gathering. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: penne, 1 can of tuna chunks, tomato paste, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 red bell pepper, salt, pepper, olive oil, thyme, olives, feta cheese.