TUNA & PEAS PASTA (PASTA CON TONNO E PISELLI)
This dish combines the simplicity of pantry staples with the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients to create a comforting and nourishing meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe demonstrates how a few humble ingredients can come together to form something truly special.
Why you will like this recipe
- Quick and easy: It is ready in just 25 minutes.
- Convenient: Made with pantry staples and simple ingredients.
- Nutritious: Contains the protein from tuna and the fiber from peas.
- Versatile: Works with any pasta format and offers room for creativity.
Enjoy this classic pasta with tuna and peas for a simple and satisfying meal!

Servings: 4
Cooking time:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 14 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, penne or the type you prefer)
- 8.5 ounces canned tuna (preferably in oil, drained)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Finesalt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Method
1. Prepare the ingredients:
- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- If using frozen peas, skip the blanching step.
- Drain canned tuna and flake it slightly with a fork.
2. Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Prepare the sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the peas and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the tuna:
- Gently stir the drained tuna into the pan with the onions and peas.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine the pasta:
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water.
- Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and stir.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to loosen it.
6. Serve and enjoy:
- Divide the pasta among plates.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this simple but satisfying dish.
Tips for success
- Pasta water: Always save some pasta water before draining; it helps create a cohesive sauce.
- Tuna in oil: Tuna in oil offers a richer flavor, but you can use tuna in water for a lighter option.
- Optional additions: Add a pinch of red pepper for a spicy kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy note.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron |
| 2 mg |








