Lemony Tuna Pasta
Bright, zesty, and irresistibly flavorful, this Lemony Tuna Pasta is the perfect quick and easy dinner recipe. Combining tender spaghetti with juicy, protein-packed tuna, this dish is elevated by fresh lemon zest and juice, which add a refreshing tang that complements the richness of olive oil and savory garlic. A pinch of red chili flakes delivers a subtle kick, while freshly chopped parsley provides a vibrant, herbaceous finish. Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pan wonder effortlessly transforms humble pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this light and citrusy pasta pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or an extra drizzle of olive oil for a truly satisfying, Mediterranean-inspired experience.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 pcs garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans canned tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- 120 ml pasta water
- as desired Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Stir in the drained tuna, breaking it into smaller chunks with a spoon. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm it through.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red chili flakes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
341 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.2 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 33 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 718 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25.6 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.0 g | ||
| Protein | 22.9 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 34 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 254 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
