Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Recipe
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta is a quick 20-minute dinner made with spaghetti, albacore tuna, lemon, capers, and arugula.It's fresh, protein-rich, and perfect for busy weeknights.Enjoy authentic Mediterranean flavors with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cans albacore tuna packed in olive oil
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 tablespoons capers drained
- 3 tightly packed cups arugula
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, combine the tuna, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, and capers in a large serving bowl.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving a small amount of pasta water if needed.
- Add the hot pasta to the bowl and toss well until evenly coated. This Mediterranean Tuna Pasta develops its flavor as the warm pasta absorbs the lemony olive oil.
- Fold in the arugula and continue tossing until the leaves are just wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh dill and freshly ground black pepper before serving.
Notes
- Tuna packed in olive oil provides the richest flavor.
- Baby spinach can replace arugula if preferred.
- Parmesan cheese may be sprinkled on top if desired.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
- This recipe tastes delicious warm or chilled.