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Pasta with Tuna, Herbs, and Cherry Tomatoes

17/11/2023

Pasta with tuna, herbs, and cherry tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish. Here is the recipe with a classic Italian touch.

Ingredients

  • 320 g of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or other pasta of your choice)
  • 200 g of canned tuna in oil
  • 150 g of cherry tomatoes
  • 1 bunch of fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives)
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • (optional) red chili pepper to taste
  • (optional) Taggiasca or pitted black olives

Preparation

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Once the water starts to boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions to achieve an al dente texture.

  2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat and add the peeled garlic cloves (you can remove them after they have browned if you prefer a milder flavor).

  3. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters, according to your preference, and add them to the skillet as soon as the garlic is golden.

  4. Drain the oil from the tuna and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes. If you like, you can leave some of the tuna oil to further enrich the sauce.

  5. Cook the sauce over low heat for a few minutes. If desired, add a pinch of red chili pepper to add some spiciness to the dish and the olives cut into rounds.

  6. Drain the pasta al dente, reserving some of the pasta water, and add it to the skillet with the tuna and tomatoes. If the pasta seems too dry, you can add some of the reserved pasta water.

  7. While the pasta is absorbing the flavors in the skillet, finely chop the fresh herbs and add them to the dish, mixing well to distribute them evenly.

  8. Plate the pasta, adjust the salt and pepper, and garnish with a few fresh herb leaves.

Curiosity

Canned tuna is an ingredient widely used in Italian kitchens for its convenience and versatility. Paired with cherry tomatoes, it creates a light and tasty sauce, which perfectly complements the freshness of the aromatic herbs. This dish is ideal for a summer meal or when looking for a quick yet tasty option.