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Tuna Pasta with Pesto Recipe

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4.3 from 88 reviews

This Tuna Pasta with Pesto is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal combining al dente spaghetti, savory tuna packed in olive oil, and vibrant homemade or store-bought pesto. Enhanced with garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of butter, this dish balances rich and fresh flavors perfectly. It’s an easy, satisfying pasta recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes, ideal for busy days or when you crave a fuss-free yet delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 (1 pound/454 g) package of spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape

Sauce and Flavorings

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (or olive oil drained from the tuna can)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3/4 cup pesto
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice (or to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Protein

  • 10-12 ounces (285-340 g) canned or jarred tuna packed in olive oil, drained

Garnish

  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
  2. Sauté garlic: Using the same pot, heat the olive oil (or the reserved olive oil from the tuna cans) over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
  3. Toss pasta with pesto: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the pesto and toss to combine, gradually adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the butter until melted, creating a smooth sauce.
  4. Add tuna: Gently fold in the drained tuna along with the lemon juice and zest, taking care to keep some tuna chunks intact for texture.
  5. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper liberally, adjusting seasoning to taste to enhance the flavors.
  6. Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish generously with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley to add freshness and a savory finish. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water is key to loosening the pesto and creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
  • Use good quality tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the tuna and pesto.
  • Butter is optional but adds a creamy finish to the sauce.
  • Customize by adding chili flakes or capers for an extra flavor twist.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/tuna-pasta-with-pesto-recipe/