Description
This flavorful Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers is a quick and delicious Italian-inspired dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Combining al dente spaghetti with savory tuna, tangy capers, and bright lemon zest, this meal delivers a satisfying balance of flavors that are both fresh and pantry-friendly. The addition of garlic, optional cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley makes this pasta dish vibrant and comforting, ideal for seafood lovers looking for an easy yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Sauce and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (5-ounce) can tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add tuna and capers: Stir in the drained and flaked tuna and the rinsed capers, gently mixing to combine them with the garlic and oil.
- Optional tomatoes: If using, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the lemon zest and juice. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a light coating sauce consistency.
- Season and finish: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for a pantry-friendly weeknight dinner.
- Use high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding olives or anchovies.
- Omit the cherry tomatoes if you prefer a more traditional version.
