Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe

This Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe is simple, fresh, and comforting. It is perfect for busy weekdays. The flavors are light but satisfying. Juicy tomatoes, tender tuna, and fresh basil work beautifully together. This pasta feels homemade and cozy.

You can make it quickly with pantry ingredients. This Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe is budget-friendly and family-approved. If you want a healthy meal, this is ideal. Today, you will learn How to make Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta easily at home. Let’s get started.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

The secret is freshness and timing. Use ripe tomatoes or good canned tomatoes. Do not overcook the tuna. Add it gently at the end. Fresh basil should be added last. This keeps its aroma strong.

Olive oil brings everything together. A little pasta water makes the sauce silky. Simple seasoning lets ingredients shine. Balance is key. When done right, this pasta tastes light and rich at the same time.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Main dish
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Large pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients You Need for Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe

• Pasta of choice, penne or spaghetti
• Canned tuna in olive oil or water
• Fresh tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red chili flakes
• Onion
• Parmesan cheese for topping

These are the main Ingredients for Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta.

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water. Add salt. Boil pasta until tender but still firm.

2. Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining, save one cup pasta water. This helps adjust sauce texture later.

3. Drain the Pasta

Drain pasta in a colander. Set aside. Do not rinse to keep starch.

4. Prepare the Tuna

Open tuna cans. Drain excess liquid gently. Flake tuna using a fork.

5. Heat the Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pan. Keep heat medium to avoid burning.

6. Cook the Onion

Add chopped onion to oil. Cook until soft and lightly golden.

7. Add Garlic

Add minced garlic. Stir for thirty seconds until fragrant. Do not brown.

8. Add Tomatoes

Add chopped or crushed tomatoes. Stir well. Let sauce simmer gently.

9. Season the Sauce

Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Adjust seasoning to taste slowly.

10. Simmer the Sauce

Let sauce cook for ten minutes. Stir occasionally until slightly thickened.

11. Add Tuna

Add flaked tuna to sauce. Stir gently to keep tuna chunks intact.

12. Add Pasta Water

Add some reserved pasta water. Stir until sauce becomes smooth and glossy.

13. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked pasta to pan. Toss gently until pasta is fully coated.

14. Add Fresh Basil

Tear basil leaves by hand. Add to pasta. Mix gently.

15. Taste and Adjust

Taste pasta. Add more salt or pepper if needed.

16. Finish with Olive Oil

Drizzle extra olive oil on top. Turn off heat.

17. Serve Warm

Serve pasta immediately. Top with grated Parmesan if desired.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
• Add olives for a salty touch.
• Use cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
• Add spinach for extra greens.
• Use chili oil for more heat.
• Replace tuna with salmon if desired.
• Add lemon zest for freshness.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

These tips help improve How to make Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta perfectly.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	28 g
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fiber	5 g
Sodium	410 mg

This meal is balanced and filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with garlic bread. Pair with a green salad. Add roasted vegetables on the side. Serve with sparkling water or juice. This pasta also works for lunch boxes. It is great for casual dinners. You can serve it warm or slightly cool. It tastes good both ways.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Let pasta cool before storing. Place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for three days. Add a little water before reheating. Reheat on stovetop for best texture. Microwave works for quick meals. Avoid overheating to keep tuna soft. Fresh basil is best added after reheating.

FAQs about Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes work very well. Choose good quality crushed or diced tomatoes. They give consistent flavor and save preparation time.

Which tuna is best for this recipe?
Tuna in olive oil gives richer flavor. Tuna in water works too. Just drain it well before using.

Can I make Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook it earlier. Store it properly in the fridge. Reheat gently and add fresh basil before serving.

Is this recipe healthy for everyday meals?
Yes, it is balanced with protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Use less cheese for a lighter version.

Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, add more chili flakes or fresh chili. Adjust heat according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

This Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta Recipe is easy, fresh, and comforting. It uses simple ingredients and basic steps. Anyone can make it successfully. The flavors are light yet satisfying.

This dish is perfect for busy days. Now you know How to make Tomato Basil Tuna Pasta at home with confidence. Try it today and enjoy a homemade Italian-style meal.