Save A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring flaky canned tuna, briny olives, and tangy capers in a savory tomato sauce.
I always reach for this recipe midweek when I crave something fast yet packed with lively flavors. The olives and capers transport me to sunny Italian coasts with every bite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) dried spaghetti or linguine
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp extra virgin
- Garlic: 3 cloves, finely sliced
- Red onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Crushed tomatoes: 400 g (14 oz) canned
- Tuna: 160 g (5.5 oz) canned in olive oil, drained and flaked
- Black olives: 80 g (1/2 cup) pitted, sliced
- Capers: 2 tbsp, rinsed and drained
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt & black pepper: To taste
- Parsley: 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf, chopped
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
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Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Simmer sauce:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 8 to 10 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
- Add tuna, olives & capers:
- Add tuna, olives, and capers to the sauce. Heat through for 2 to 3 minutes, gently stirring.
- Combine pasta & sauce:
- Toss drained pasta into sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Mix in lemon zest and half of the parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with remaining parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save This pasta quickly became a family favorite during our cozy Friday dinners. We love how simple tools make it approachable for young helpers in the kitchen.
Recipe Notes
For gluten-free diets, use gluten-free pasta. Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino for an authentic touch.
Kitchen Tools
You will need a large pot, colander, large skillet, wooden spoon, chef's knife, and chopping board for effortless preparation.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains wheat (gluten) and fish. Check canned tuna, olives, and capers for cross-contamination risks. Each serving provides about 465 calories, 13 g fat, 64 g carbohydrates, and 24 g protein.
Save This easy pasta is perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful and nourishing. It's sure to become a staple in your home.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal as they hold the sauce well and complement the delicate texture of the tuna and olives.
- → Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
While fresh tuna can be used, it requires careful cooking to avoid drying out. Canned tuna provides a flaky texture that blends well with the sauce.
- → How do the capers influence the flavor?
Capers add a bright, tangy, and slightly salty punch, balancing the richness of the tuna and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties like rice or corn-based pasta without altering the flavor profile significantly.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
Crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino beautifully complement the briny and savory elements of the dish.
