Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
Tips From The Kitchen
- Cook the capellini just until al dente to avoid mushy pasta.
- Use high-quality canned tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor.
- Toss the pasta with the sauce while still warm to help the flavors meld together.
Ingredients 0/10
Why This Dish Is Worth Trying
This dish combines fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors with the light texture of capellini pasta. It’s quick to prepare and full of healthy ingredients like tuna, olives, and herbs. Perfect for a satisfying meal that feels both elegant and easy.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the capellini and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s just tender but still has a little bite. While the pasta cooks, squeeze the juice of a lemon into a big bowl, making sure to catch any seeds. Add the olive oil and give it a good stir to combine everything. Then mix in the Parmesan, chopped parsley, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and a pinch of crushed red pepper until it all comes together nicely. Flake the tuna into the bowl, breaking up any big chunks, and gently fold in the cannellini beans. When the pasta is done, drain it well and toss it right into the tuna mixture. Give it a good mix so all the flavors blend, and serve it up while it’s fresh and warm.
35
people cooked this recipe
Perfect Pairings
Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to keep the meal fresh and balanced. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon pairs nicely with these bright Mediterranean flavors.
Storage Advice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to keep the tuna moist and prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of capellini?
Yes, thin pasta like angel hair or spaghetti works well as a substitute.
Do I need to use tuna packed in oil or can I use tuna in water?
Tuna packed in oil adds more flavor and richness, but you can use tuna in water for a lighter dish.
How can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Replace tuna with chickpeas or extra cannellini beans, and use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh and warm, but you can refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently.
Is it necessary to rinse the cannellini beans?
Yes, rinsing removes excess salt and improves their texture in the dish.
How spicy is this recipe with the crushed red pepper flakes?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used, but add it sparingly as it’s less flavorful than fresh.
