Pasta pudding with cheese and tuna

Delicious pasta, cheese, and tuna pudding: a simple and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a warm and hearty meal that brings together delicious ingredients and family around the table? Pasta, cheese, and tuna pudding is one of those recipes that not only delights the taste buds but is also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting lunch. I will guide you step by step on how to prepare it, sharing some useful tips and variations to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients
- 350 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh for a creamy texture)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (ideally fatty for more flavor)
- 200 g short pasta (spirals, penne, or macaroni, according to preference)
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional, but recommended for an umami taste)
- 50 g grated cheese (for a golden crust)
- 100 g pitted olives (preferably green for a taste contrast)
- 200 g tuna in its own juice (or in oil, depending on preference)
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Butter for greasing (to prevent sticking)

Brief history of the recipe
This pasta pudding is a versatile recipe inspired by culinary traditions that combine pasta with cheese and protein. Over the years, various versions have emerged, with each culture adding its personal touch. It is an excellent choice for using up leftover pasta or tuna, transforming them into a tasty and comforting dish.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boiling the pasta
In a large pot, add water with a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 12 minutes. It should be al dente, with a slightly firm texture. After boiling, drain well in a colander and set aside.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the eggs and sour cream using a mixer or a fork. You will obtain a smooth and fine cream. It is important that the cottage cheese is well drained, so the pudding is not too wet. Add the grated cheese and 2 tablespoons of parmesan, mixing well to incorporate them.

3. Seasoning
Add the chopped parsley and a little freshly ground pepper. This will give a fresh and aromatic taste to your dish. Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined.

4. Adding the pasta
Gently fold the drained pasta into the cheese mixture, mixing lightly to avoid breaking the pasta. Make sure each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the cheese cream.

5. Preparing the tuna and olives
Open the can of tuna, drain the juice (or oil, if preferred), and break the tuna into smaller pieces. Slice the olives into rounds for easier mixing.

6. Assembling the pudding
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a heat-resistant dish, grease the interior with butter and line it with baking paper to prevent sticking. Spread half of the pasta and cheese mixture on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the tuna and some olives, then repeat with the remaining ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the other 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan on top for a golden crust.

7. Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top becomes golden and crispy. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the aroma wafting through the air!

8. Cooling and serving
Once the pudding is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Useful tips
- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to achieve a different texture and taste. You can also add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra nutrient boost.
- Serving: This pudding pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a dry white wine, can perfectly complement the meal.
- Nutritional values: Each serving contains approximately 400-450 calories, making it a balanced choice in terms of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and is a healthier choice.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Although the original recipe contains dairy and eggs, you can substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and the eggs with chia egg or a flaxseed mixture.
- How long does the pudding keep? It can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

In conclusion, pasta, cheese, and tuna pudding is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to create beautiful moments with loved ones. So, change your cooking style and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 350 g cottage cheese, 3 eggs, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 200 g short pasta (I had spirals), 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan, 50 g cheese, 100 g pitted olives, 200 g tuna in its own juice, 1/2 bunch fresh parsley, pepper