Penne with Tuna, a tantalizing dish that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean flavors and culinary simplicity, is a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick and wholesome meals. Bursting with the goodness of tender tuna, robust garlic, succulent plum tomatoes, and the subtle umami notes of anchovy fillets, this recipe promises a symphony of flavors in every bite. Crafted to perfection in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something both nutritious and indulgent.
With a mere 5 minutes of prep time and a swift 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients. Each serving of this delectable Penne with Tuna clocks in at approximately 361.1 calories, making it a wholesome option for those mindful of their calorie intake. Moreover, with 10.7 grams of fat, 1.8 grams of saturated fat, and 20.1 milligrams of cholesterol per serving, it’s a heart-healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Let’s delve into the culinary journey of crafting this masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup of plum tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 3 anchovy fillets
- 1 can of tuna (drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 8 ounces of penne pasta
Instructions:
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Begin by heating olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onions and sauté them for approximately 5 minutes until they turn translucent and begin to develop a golden hue, infusing the oil with their sweet aroma.
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Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions start to brown slightly, releasing their natural sugars and intensifying the depth of flavor in the dish.
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Now, it’s time to introduce the star ingredient – anchovy fillets. These tiny powerhouses of umami flavor add a rich complexity to the dish. Add the anchovy fillets to the pan and gently crush them with the back of a spoon, allowing their savory essence to meld with the other ingredients.
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As the aroma of the anchovies permeates the kitchen, add the diced plum tomatoes to the pan, stirring well to combine. Cover the pan and let the tomatoes simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing them to break down and form a luscious sauce that will coat every strand of pasta with its vibrant flavor.
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While the sauce simmers, prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection – firm to the bite yet tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside momentarily.
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Now, it’s time to add the pièce de résistance – the tuna. Drain the canned tuna and break it into large, luscious flakes, then add it to the simmering sauce along with a generous sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Since both anchovies and tuna are inherently salty, additional salt may not be necessary.
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Allow the sauce to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify as the juices evaporate and the sauce thickens to a luxurious consistency that clings enticingly to the pasta.
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With the tantalizing aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and tuna wafting through the air, it’s time to unite the sauce with the cooked penne pasta. Toss the pasta in the sauce until each strand is coated in the savory goodness, ensuring that every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
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Serve the Penne with Tuna piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a touch of brightness and freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of the sumptuous sauce.
In just 25 minutes, you’ve created a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings for a wholesome, flavorful meal. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased as the star attraction at your next dinner party, Penne with Tuna is a dish that never fails to impress. So, gather your ingredients, sharpen your knives, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as effortless as it is delicious!
