Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tsp Butter
• 1 tsp Olive oil
• 4 large Garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/8 cup Lemon juice
• 3 tsp Capers, drained
• 18 Black olives, pitted & sliced
• 2 cans Tuna, chunk, drained
• Pasta (penne), cooked and drained
• 4 tsp Butter (add at the end)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped garlic to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice, capers, and sliced black olives. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Add the drained tuna to the skillet, using a fork to gently separate it without flaking.
5. Heat the tuna through, stirring gently to combine with the other ingredients.
6. In the meantime, cook the pasta (penne) according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta.
7. Add the remaining 4 teaspoons of butter to the hot pasta, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly.
8. Pour the tuna sauce over the butter-coated pasta and toss everything together to combine.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful Tuna Pasta with Garlic, Capers, and Olives!

This simple and delicious tuna pasta recipe is packed with bold flavors from garlic, capers, and olives. The addition of lemon juice gives it a refreshing tanginess. The tuna is gently heated through, keeping it in large chunks for a delightful texture. Tossing the hot pasta with butter and the flavorful tuna sauce ensures every bite is savory and satisfying.

Here are some delightful options to try:

1. Creamy Tuna Pasta: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream or half-and-half to the tuna sauce to create a creamy and luscious version of the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato and Tuna Pasta: Add rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for added richness.
3. Spicy Tuna Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the sauce for some heat. For an extra kick, stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce or chili paste.
4. Tuna and Spinach Pasta: Toss in fresh baby spinach leaves to the pasta while it’s still hot, allowing them to wilt. The combination of tuna, garlic, capers, olives, and spinach creates a balanced and nutritious dish.
5. Tuna Puttanesca Pasta: Enhance the sauce with anchovy fillets, chopped anchovies, or anchovy paste for an intense umami flavor. Mix in some chopped fresh tomatoes for a vibrant twist.
6. Tuna and Lemon Pepper Pasta: Season the tuna sauce with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty and aromatic taste. Add a splash of white wine while cooking the sauce for a refreshing twist.
7. Green Olive and Tuna Pasta: Swap black olives for green olives and add a handful of chopped parsley for a tangy and herbaceous variation.
8. Tuna and Artichoke Pasta: Mix in marinated artichoke hearts to the sauce for a unique and delicious twist. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
9. Tuna and Broccoli Pasta: Steam or blanch broccoli florets and toss them with the pasta and tuna sauce for added nutrition and color.
10. Tuna and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta: Stir in roasted red pepper strips to the tuna sauce for a smoky and sweet flavor. Top with grated Pecorino Romano cheese for a nutty finish.