Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne
This Spicy Tuna Tomato Penne is a quick, bold, and flavorful pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights with pantry staples and a spicy kick.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1-2 tsp red pepper flakes adjust for spice preference
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with juice and 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes to meld flavors and thicken slightly.
- Flake the drained tuna with a fork and add to the skillet. Gently fold into the tomato sauce, being careful not to break it up too much. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Add drained penne pasta to the skillet with sauce. Toss together over low heat until pasta is well coated and warmed through, about 2 minutes.
- Turn off heat and stir in chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen and bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Use tuna packed in water to keep the dish light and avoid oily texture.
- Add fresh herbs like basil at the end for bright, fresh flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.