Pasta with white sauce and tuna

Penne with white sauce and tuna - A delicious and quick recipe for a savory lunch or dinner

When it comes to cooking, sometimes we crave a meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare. This recipe for penne with white sauce and tuna is perfect for those days when time is limited, but the desire for something tasty is high. With a combination of pasta, creamy sauce, and tuna, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your family. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 250-300 g penne
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 300 g cooking cream
- 150 g feta cheese
- 50 g grated cheese
- 200 g tuna in natural juice or oil
- 1 small can of peas (about 200 g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh or dried basil
- Freshly ground pepper

A bit of history:
Pasta is a staple food in many culinary cultures, with a rich history spanning several centuries. Penne, a type of tubular pasta, is often used in dishes with creamy or rich sauces due to its ability to hold flavors. The white sauce, especially one based on cream, is a favorite in many Italian dishes, adding flavor and consistency. Tuna, on the other hand, is an excellent source of protein and is often used in salads or pasta dishes, bringing a delicate marine taste.

Step by step:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water starts to boil, add the penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic cloves (you can use a knife to lightly crush them or a garlic press) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden. Be careful not to leave them on the heat too long, as they can develop a bitter taste.

3. Add the cream: Pour the cream into the skillet and mix well. Let the sauce simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes. You will notice it starting to thicken.

4. Incorporate the cheese: Crumble the feta cheese with a fork and add it to the sauce. Also add the grated cheese. Mix well until the cheese completely melts and you achieve a homogeneous composition.

5. Season: Remove the sauce from heat and add freshly ground pepper, basil, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. This step is essential, as the flavors intensify as the sauce rests.

6. Add the tuna and peas: Drain the peas from the can and the tuna (if it's in oil, you can leave a little oil for extra flavor). Break the tuna into smaller pieces with a fork. Add the peas and tuna to the cream sauce and mix well.

7. Finalize the dish: When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet over the sauce. Mix everything well to ensure the pasta is completely coated with sauce.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the mixture to a heat-resistant dish and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crispy.

Serving:
After removing the dish from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, then serve the dish warm, sprinkled with a little fresh basil and, if desired, grated Parmesan on top. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread.

Practical tips:
- Variations: You can substitute tuna with smoked salmon or cooked chicken, and feta cheese can be replaced with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Additions: If you like vegetables, you can also add zucchini or fresh spinach to the sauce for a touch of freshness and color.
- Olive oil: Use a high-quality olive oil, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe contains approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the tuna and cheeses, while the cream brings healthy fats. The penne provides the necessary carbohydrates for energy, and the peas add fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, you can use whole grain pasta for a healthier option. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions.

2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta a few hours ahead and combine and bake them at serving time.

3. What drinks pair well with this recipe?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent options to accompany this dish.

This recipe for penne with white sauce and tuna is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. I hope you found this recipe helpful and encourage you to try it soon! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: -250-300 g penne pasta - olive oil - 2 garlic cloves - 300 g cooking cream - 150 g feta cheese - 50 g grated cheese - 200 g tuna in natural juice/oil - 1 small can of peas - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - basil - pepper