Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful Zucchini and Tuna Pappardelle recipe. Perfectly cooked pappardelle pasta is tossed with tender zucchini, fragrant garlic, and flaky canned tuna, all brought together with a zesty touch of lemon zest and juice. A sprinkle of red chili flakes adds a hint of heat, while fresh parsley brightens the dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is a perfect balance of light and hearty, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. For an added layer of indulgence, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Simple, wholesome, and irresistibly delicious, it's a dinner you'll want to savor time and time again!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly golden.
Stir in the flaked tuna, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red chili flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything together gently to combine.
If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Calories |
1870 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 73.5 g | 94% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 98 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 3188 mg | 139% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 207.3 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.7 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.1 g | ||
| Protein | 92.1 g | 184% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.8 mcg | 59% | |
| Calcium | 237 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2050 mg | 44% | |
*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.