Tuna Pea Pasta

Tuna Pea Pasta is a quick and satisfying meal made with simple pantry and freezer staples. This dish brings together tender pasta, sweet peas, and flaky tuna in a light, flavorful olive oil or lemon-based sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or cold pasta salad for warmer days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes using pantry and freezer staples
• Light and refreshing, yet hearty and filling
• Great served hot or cold—perfect for leftovers or meal prep
• Easily customizable with extra veggies, cheese, or herbs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (bowties, penne, or shells work well)
• Frozen peas
• Canned tuna (preferably in olive oil)
• Olive oil
• Onion and garlic
• Lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, capers, or chopped spinach

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Add peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
2. Drain pasta and peas; set aside.
3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
4. Add drained tuna, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
5. Return pasta and peas to the pot. Toss everything together with fresh parsley.
6. Serve warm or chilled. Top with Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Creamy version: Add a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of cream
• Add crunch: Mix in toasted breadcrumbs or crushed almonds before serving
• Boost the greens: Add chopped spinach or arugula at the end
• Switch the protein: Try canned salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freezing is possible, though pasta texture may change slightly
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or olive oil

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peas?

Yes, but frozen peas provide a better texture and brighter color.

2. What kind of tuna is best?

Tuna packed in olive oil offers better flavor and richness.

3. Is this good cold?

Yes, it makes a great pasta salad for picnics or lunches.

4. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely—just cook according to the package directions.

5. How do I make it more filling?

Add more protein like hard-boiled eggs or white beans.

6. Is it dairy-free?

Yes, as long as you skip the optional Parmesan.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes—zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers all work well.

8. Does it need a sauce?

The olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice create a light, flavorful dressing.

9. How can I make it spicy?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

10. What herbs go best?

Parsley, dill, or basil all complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Tuna Pea Pasta is the ultimate fuss-free meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With its mix of pantry staples and fresh touches, it’s a go-to dish for busy nights or relaxed meals. Enjoy it hot, cold, or packed up for lunch—it’s always a hit.

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