Recipe Title: Tuna and Peas Pasta
Category: Main Dishes
Serves: 4
This Tuna and Peas Pasta is an incredibly simple yet satisfying dish that combines the heartiness of tuna, the sweetness of peas, and the fresh burst of cherry tomatoes. It’s the perfect meal for any night of the week, whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or preparing something delicious to share with loved ones. It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Spaghetti | 320g |
| Canned Tuna in Oil | 130g |
| Fresh Peas | 170g |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 180g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh Basil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Ground Black Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, add a generous pinch of salt. While waiting for the water to boil, wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Base Flavors
In a medium-sized skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the whole garlic clove, lightly smashed. Let it sauté in the oil for about 1 minute, just until it releases its fragrance.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Peas
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan with the garlic. Stir them occasionally and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes. The tomatoes will begin to break down and release their juices, creating a rich base for the sauce. At this point, add the fresh peas to the pan and cook everything together for another 5 minutes on medium heat.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
As the sauce simmers, add the gluten-free spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes for perfect al dente texture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tuna
While the pasta is cooking, open the can of tuna and drain the oil. Once the tomato and pea mixture has simmered for about 10 minutes, stir in the tuna. Break it up into smaller chunks with your spatula, making sure it evenly distributes through the sauce. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, adjusting the flavors to your liking.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the spaghetti. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tuna, peas, and tomatoes. If the sauce looks too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, a tablespoon at a time. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, allowing the pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Step 7: Final Touches
Before serving, remove the garlic clove from the skillet. Finely chop some fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them on top of the pasta for a burst of freshness. If desired, add another crack of black pepper for extra flavor.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Tuna and Peas Pasta hot, with an optional drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated parmesan (for non-vegan options). Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of this gluten-free, easy-to-make pasta dish!
Tips and Variations:
- Add More Veggies: For extra nutrients, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the tuna with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and skip the parmesan topping.
- Cheese Lovers: For those who enjoy cheese, adding a handful of grated mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta can make this pasta even richer.
This Tuna and Peas Pasta is the ideal quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a light lunch, it delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tuna adds a delicious umami richness, while the peas bring a touch of sweetness, and the cherry tomatoes give the dish a refreshing burst of acidity. Plus, with gluten-free spaghetti, it’s perfect for those with dietary needs. Enjoy this hearty and healthy dish, and share it with your family and friends for a truly satisfying meal!
