Tuscan Tuna Herb Pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

   2 min hands-on8 min waiting

   • Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
   • Cook the pasta until al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions.
   • Reserve some pasta water before draining.

2. Toast the Breadcrumbs

   4 min hands-on

   • Finely grate the garlic and set aside.
   • Heat half of the olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat.
   • Add the grated garlic and breadcrumbs, stirring constantly until golden brown and fragrant.
   • Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.

3. Heat the Tuna and Create the Sauce

   3 min hands-on

   • In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the drained tuna, breaking it into chunks, leaving some larger pieces.
   • Pour in some reserved pasta water to loosen the tuna, creating a light sauce.
   • Stir gently and warm through, seasoning with salt and black pepper.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

   2 min waiting

   • Add the drained pasta to the pan with the tuna mixture.
   • Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
   • Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes over low heat.

5. Incorporate the Basil

   • Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces.
   • Stir them into the pasta just before serving.

6. Plate and Garnish

   2 min hands-on

   • Divide the pasta between serving bowls.
   • Sprinkle the garlicky breadcrumbs generously over the top.
   • Serve immediately while warm.
   • Cooking tips:
   • Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor of the dish.
   • Don’t skip reserving the pasta water—it’s essential for creating a silky sauce.
   • Toasting the breadcrumbs until golden is key for achieving a crunchy topping.
   • For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs while toasting.