This Pasta with Tuna and Arugula recipe is a light, nutritious, and flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the freshness of arugula and the richness of tuna. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
- 2 cups arugula, washed and dried
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tuna: Add the flaked tuna to the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes. If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
- Combine Pasta with Tuna: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tuna and garlic. Toss well to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the mixture come together.
- Add Arugula and Lemon: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the arugula, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The residual heat will slightly wilt the arugula. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too dry, add a little more reserved pasta water or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls or plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 25g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4 people
Pasta with Tuna and Arugula is a beautifully balanced dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The peppery arugula and tangy lemon zest complement the tuna perfectly, making this a light yet fulfilling meal suitable for any day of the week.
