Name: Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 ounces uncooked pasta (spaghetti recommended); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large cloves garlic, minced; 1 (5 ounce) can tuna, drained (preferably packed in oil); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Freshly grated parmesan cheese; Lemon zest

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, this Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of simple pantry staples transformed into a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and just the right touch of brightness from lemon and parsley. Whether you’re a pasta lover or need a speedy dinner solution, this recipe delivers deliciousness in just 15 minutes, making it an absolute kitchen winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. On the top left, there is an open can with light beige contents inside, next to long uncooked yellow pasta strands on the right. Below the can, there is a small white bowl with grated light yellow cheese, and right next to it, a small white bowl filled with chopped dark green herbs. Between these bowls is a small white bowl filled with a white liquid, and above it, a small round yellow cup holding a light golden liquid. The setup is simple, with each ingredient clearly visible and separated. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in bringing the Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe to life—from the hearty pasta providing a satisfying base to the zesty lemon juice that wakes up every bite.

4 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose spaghetti or your favorite thin noodle; it holds the sauce beautifully and cooks quickly.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity note and helps carry the garlic flavor through the dish.
2 large cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the oil with an irresistible aroma and depth.
1 (5 ounce) can tuna, drained: Tuna packed in oil enhances flavor and moistness; feel free to use your preferred variety.
1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the tuna and oil.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a vibrant green color and fresh herbal note that lifts the whole meal.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together just right.

How to Make Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling a generous pot of salted water—this is crucial because seasoning the pasta water is the first step to flavorful pasta. Cook your pasta al dente according to the package instructions so it has a firm texture that won’t get mushy once tossed with the sauce.

Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil with Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté it quickly for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time is just enough to release its aroma without burning the garlic, ensuring a sweet and gentle garlic flavor in your pasta.

Step 3: Add Tuna, Lemon Juice, and Parsley

Next, stir in the drained canned tuna, lemon juice, and chopped parsley to the warmed olive oil and garlic. The tuna gently warms through, soaking up the fragrant garlic oil and bright lemon juice, while the parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

As the pasta finishes cooking, reserve a few tablespoons of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta, then return it to the pot or a serving bowl and toss it with the tuna sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling perfectly to every strand. Finally, season generously with salt and pepper to balance all the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe

A white bowl filled with a round nest of spaghetti pasta, light yellow in color, mixed with small pieces of tuna scattered evenly throughout. The pasta is lightly coated with a glossy sauce, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and a light dusting of grated white cheese on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a few small bits of herbs scattered around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this simple dish, try sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top or adding a little lemon zest for an extra zing. A few more fresh parsley leaves can also amp up both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, such as mixed baby greens with a light vinaigrette, or a side of roasted vegetables to add some heartiness and variety to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of elegance, plate the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge on the side. You can also swirl the pasta into nests for a professional presentation that’s perfect for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually mingle nicely, though the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so a splash of olive oil or lemon juice when reheating helps freshen it up.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this pasta since tuna and the pasta texture can change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep it moist and luscious without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use tuna packed in water instead of oil?

Yes, you can definitely use tuna packed in water, but the packed-in-oil version tends to add more richness and flavor to this dish. If using tuna in water, consider adding a bit more olive oil to compensate.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

While spaghetti is classic and cooks quickly, you can use any long pasta like linguine or even short shapes like penne. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or peas can add color and nutrition, making this simple recipe even more vibrant and satisfying.

How can I make this meal more filling?

Consider stirring in some cooked beans or serving the pasta alongside a hearty salad or garlic bread to elevate it into a more substantial meal.

Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?

Definitely! In 15 minutes or less, this Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe provides a tasty, satisfying meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknight schedules.

Final Thoughts

This Canned Tuna Pasta Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like an instant classic—a total go-to when life gets hectic but you still want something homemade and delicious. I always find that its simplicity is its strength, delivering fresh, bright flavors with minimal effort. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite weeknight dinners too!