Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is a dish that dances on your taste buds, delivering bold flavors and tantalizing aromas that whisk you away to an Italian seaside café. Imagine twirling those perfectly cooked spaghetti strands around your fork, while the rich tomato sauce, briny olives, and succulent tuna create a symphony of taste that sings sweet nothings to your palate. Now picture this: it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you decide to whip up this beauty for a cozy dinner. Trust me; your kitchen will smell like heaven, and you’ll feel like a culinary genius.
Now, let’s take a moment to reminisce about family gatherings where Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna graced the table, everyone eagerly diving in as laughter filled the air. This dish is perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to spontaneous get-togethers with friends. So grab your apron, because you’re about to embark on a flavorful journey that promises to excite your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna
- This incredible Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna:
- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti for the best texture; cook it al dente for that perfect bite.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor and health benefits.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic depth; slice or mince them based on preference.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if available; they are sweeter and more flavorful.
- Tuna: Canned tuna works perfectly here; choose one packed in olive oil for extra richness.
- Kalamata Olives: These briny beauties add a punch of flavor; pit them before using.
- Capers: Tiny but mighty! They provide a sharp tang that balances the dish beautifully.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness; chop it finely before sprinkling over the finished dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna:
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute—being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Add canned tomatoes (crushed) into the skillet along with olives and capers. Stir well and let it simmer gently for about ten minutes to meld those glorious flavors together.
Step 4: Incorporate Tuna
Gently fold in drained canned tuna along with some reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Allow everything to heat through while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Toss cooked spaghetti into the skillet of sauce. Mix well so each strand is coated in that vibrant sauce—a true labor of love!
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Transfer Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna onto plates and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Enjoy your creation while basking in the compliments from anyone lucky enough to share this meal!
Now that you’ve mastered Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna, get ready to impress friends and family alike! Whether it’s date night or just another Tuesday at home, serve this dish with pride—it deserves all the applause!

You Must Know About Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna
- This showstopping Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic and anchovies in olive oil until fragrant. Next, add the tomatoes and olives while your pasta boils away. Finish by tossing in the tuna just before serving to keep it tender.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry stock. Want more heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a veggie twist? Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna
- This professional-quality Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
It’s funny how my friends still talk about that one dinner where I served Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna; they swear it changed their lives—well, their taste buds at least!

FAQs
What is Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?
Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is a delicious twist on the traditional Italian dish, Puttanesca. This pasta features a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, olives, and capers, complemented by the addition of tuna. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is both quick to prepare and deeply comforting. Many people enjoy this dish for its bold flavors and simplicity, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How long does it take to prepare Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?
Preparing Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna typically takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. The cooking time can be even shorter if you use canned tuna. Begin by boiling your spaghetti while you sauté garlic and create the sauce. Once everything is combined, you can enjoy a hearty meal in no time. This makes it an ideal recipe for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I customize my Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?
Absolutely! Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is highly customizable. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding red pepper flakes for extra heat or using different types of olives for varied flavor profiles. If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap in whole wheat spaghetti or add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini. The versatility of this dish allows you to make it your own while still retaining its classic essence.
What can I serve with Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?
Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar complements the richness of the pasta well. Additionally, crusty bread or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce. For those who enjoy wine, a glass of white wine enhances the meal beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please any palate. This quick and easy recipe highlights essential ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and capers, all enhanced by tender tuna. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish promises satisfaction and comfort in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try different variations to make it uniquely yours!
Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna
Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is a vibrant Italian dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a zesty tomato sauce, briny olives, and tender tuna. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, delivering bold flavors that will impress your family and friends. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and mouthwatering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna packed in olive oil, drained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- 3. Create the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, olives, and capers. Simmer for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- 4. Incorporate Tuna: Fold in drained tuna along with reserved pasta water for desired consistency. Heat through gently.
- 5. Combine Everything: Toss cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well coated.
- 6. Serve & Garnish: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 35mg


