🍴Tuna Spinach Pasta🍴
This creamy tuna spinach pasta is the ultimate quick and satisfying summer meal. With al dente castellane pasta, tender spinach, flaky tuna, and a touch of Grana Padano for a rich, creamy finish, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and light—perfect for warm weather lunches or dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan meal is a must-try for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the stress.
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 300 g castellane pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 150 g fresh baby spinach (about 4 cups)
- 2 cans tuna in olive oil (drained, 120 g each)
- 100 g Grana Padano cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
- 120 ml heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the castellane pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
- Add the spinach to the skillet and sauté until just wilted (1–2 minutes). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add Tuna
- Flake the drained tuna into the pan and gently combine with the spinach mixture. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
- Lower the heat and stir in the Grana Padano and cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 6: Combine & finish
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using.
Step 7: Serve
- Plate immediately, topped with extra Grana Padano and a twist of black pepper.
Tips & variations
- For extra flavor, add a handful of capers or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for cream for a lighter, tangy finish12.
- Use any short pasta shape—penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well12.
- For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Drink Pairing Suggestions
- Swiss Chasselas - Light, floral, nutty - echoes mushroom & cheese
- Italian Pinot Grigio - Crisp, citrusy—balances creamy richness
- France Provence Rosé - Dry, mineral-driven rosé—red fruit balancing the creamy and savory elements