Tuna Pasta with Capers, Lemon, and Cream Recipe
This Tuna Pasta with Capers, Lemon, and Cream is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal. The combination of creamy sauce, tangy capers, zesty lemon, and flaky tuna creates a balanced and delicious pasta dish. It’s simple to make, yet tastes restaurant-quality!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1 can (5-6 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained (or packed in water, drained and flaked)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Prepare the sauce base:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chili flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add capers and tuna:
- Stir in the capers and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the drained tuna, breaking it up gently with a spoon. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm it through.
4. Make the creamy sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
5. Add lemon and seasonings:
- Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring well. Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed (capers and Parmesan are salty, so adjust carefully).
6. Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
- Divide the pasta into bowls or plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips:
- Tuna options: Use high-quality canned tuna in olive oil for a richer flavor. If using tuna packed in water, you may need to add a bit more olive oil for richness.
- Cream alternatives: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, crème fraîche, or even a splash of milk.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Variations:
- Garlic-Lemon Tuna Pasta (No Cream):
- Skip the cream and Parmesan for a lighter, dairy-free version. Toss the pasta with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and tuna.
2. Spicy Tuna Pasta:
- Add extra chili flakes or a touch of sriracha for a spicy kick.
3. Mediterranean Style:
- Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
4. Herby Version:
- Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, dill, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
This Tuna Pasta with Capers, Lemon, and Cream is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors—ideal for a quick and comforting meal! 🍋🐟🍝
