Description
Tuna and Vegetable Pasta is a quick, wholesome, and budget-friendly meal made with tender pasta, flaky tuna, and colorful vegetables tossed in a light, savory sauce. This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for busy weeknights, combining simple pantry staples with fresh vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell pepper or zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
Seasonings and Garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and chopped bell pepper or zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Combine tuna and seasoning: Add the drained tuna to the skillet along with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well.
- Toss pasta with the mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use any fresh or frozen vegetables you have available, such as peas, spinach, or carrots, to customize the dish.
- Increase the olive oil slightly if you prefer a richer, more flavorful pasta.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice added just before serving can enhance the brightness of the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
