A good pasta dish is like the star at a party. It shines brightly, but it needs some cool friends to make the event memorable. Here are a few sidekicks that pair wonderfully with Tuna Napolitana Pasta: A crisp, fresh salad, Garlic bread, or A glass of chilled white wine. If you’re into wines, a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay would complement the flavors nicely. Now, let’s dive into this scrumptious dish!
Have you ever had that moment when you’re rummaging through your pantry, looking for something to whip up, and you find a can of tuna staring back at you? Well, that’s exactly how I stumbled upon the Tuna Napolitana Pasta recipe.
It’s one of those dishes that are surprisingly delicious, and it’s perfect when you’re short on time but craving something hearty. So, let’s get our aprons on and get cooking!
What is Tuna Napolitana Pasta?
Tuna Napolitana Pasta is a comforting, rich dish with origins rooted in the heart of Italian cuisine. It’s a simple yet flavorful mixture of pasta, tuna, and a delectable tomato-based sauce. Even though it doesn’t scream extravagance, it packs a punch in terms of flavor and satisfaction.
Why This Recipe Works
Versatility: You can enjoy this dish whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself. It’s a real chameleon of a recipe that adapts to your needs.
Simplicity: The ingredients are straightforward and probably already sitting in your pantry. No need to rush to the store!
Quick to prepare: This entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Balanced flavors: The tuna and tomato sauce combination offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors, with herbs that elevate the taste to another level.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
- 450 milliliters (¾ pint) semi-skimmed milk
- 25 grams (1 ounce) unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons tomato concentrate
- 1 packet Tuna Napolitana Flavoring Mix
- 185 grams canned tuna, drained and flaked
- 275 grams (10 ounces) pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
How To Make This Tuna Napolitana Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the tomato concentrate and stir until well combined. You should see a deep red, luscious base forming.
Step 2: Mix the Flavoring
Add in the Tuna Napolitana Flavoring Mix. This mix will introduce a burst of flavors, from zesty herbs to savory spices. Stir until it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Incorporate the Milk
Next, pour in the semi-skimmed milk. Stir continuously to avoid any clumps. This step ensures the sauce is creamy and well-balanced.
Step 4: Add the Tuna
Drain the canned tuna and flake it into the saucepan. Stir it into the sauce, ensuring that the tuna chunks are well-coated. The combination of the sauce and flaked tuna creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 5: Seasoning
Add dried basil and garlic powder. These herbs add depth and enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
Step 6: Combine with the Pasta
Finally, mix the cooked and drained pasta with the prepared sauce. Toss it well to ensure every piece of pasta is flavored.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or garlic, go for it! They’ll add a more vibrant flavor compared to their dried counterparts.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: A bit of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors significantly.
- Experiment with Veggies: Throw in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added texture and color.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. A pinch of salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Nutrition Information
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the remaining pasta in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Pro tip: Add a splash of milk or water while reheating to keep that sauce creamy.
What Sides Would Complement Tuna Napolitana Pasta Recipe?
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and Italian herbs make a delightful side.
Cesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing offer a perfect counterbalance to the rich pasta.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a dash of lemon juice is another excellent companion for this dish.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Whole Milk for Semi-Skimmed Milk: Adds a bit more creaminess without a dramatic change in texture.
Olive Oil for Butter: If you’re looking to cut down on saturated fats, olive oil is a wonderful substitute.
Tomato Sauce for Tomato Concentrate: Use double the quantity as concentrate is more potent.
Fresh Tuna for Canned Tuna: If you have fresh tuna on hand, grill or sauté it before flaking and adding to your sauce.
Tuna napolitana pasta recipe
Equipment
- Stove
Ingredients
- 450 milliliters ¾ pint semi-skimmed milk
- 25 grams 1 ounce unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons tomato concentrate
- 1 packet Tuna Napolitana Flavoring Mix
- 185 grams canned tuna drained and flaked
- 275 grams 10 ounces pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the tomato concentrate and stir until well combined. You should see a deep red, luscious base forming.
Step 2: Mix the Flavoring
- Add in the Tuna Napolitana Flavoring Mix. This mix will introduce a burst of flavors, from zesty herbs to savory spices. Stir until it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Incorporate the Milk
- Next, pour in the semi-skimmed milk. Stir continuously to avoid any clumps. This step ensures the sauce is creamy and well-balanced.
Step 4: Add the Tuna
- Drain the canned tuna and flake it into the saucepan. Stir it into the sauce, ensuring that the tuna chunks are well-coated. The combination of the sauce and flaked tuna creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 5: Seasoning
- Add dried basil and garlic powder. These herbs add depth and enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
Step 6: Combine with the Pasta
- Finally, mix the cooked and drained pasta with the prepared sauce. Toss it well to ensure every piece of pasta is flavored.
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or garlic, go for it! They’ll add a more vibrant flavor compared to their dried counterparts.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: A bit of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors significantly.
- Experiment with Veggies: Throw in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added texture and color.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. A pinch of salt or pepper can make a big difference.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works wonderfully as they hold the sauce better.
Can I use flavored tuna?
Yes, flavored tuna can add an extra depth of flavor. Just be sure it complements the existing ingredients.
Is it okay to use lactose-free milk?
Lactose-free milk works as a great substitute without compromising the creaminess of the sauce.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Mozzarella or Parmesan sprinkled on top after cooking can be a delicious addition.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Ensure you stir the pasta right after adding it to boiling water and occasionally while cooking.
Conclusion
Tuna Napolitana Pasta is a dish that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and quick. Whether you’re a busy bee on a weeknight or just in the mood for something comforting, this recipe is a go-to. Plus, it’s versatile — you can tweak it to suit what you have in your pantry. So, what are you waiting for? Grab that can of tuna and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!