When life gets busy, it can be tempting to sacrifice flavor for convenience. But with this healthy tuna pesto pasta recipe, you don’t have to choose! Packed with fresh basil, protein-rich tuna, and creamy cashew pesto, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love Healthy Tuna Pesto Pasta

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and health-conscious foodies alike. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients.
• Customizable: Adaptable to your favorite pasta or dietary preferences.
• Packed with Flavor: The vibrant basil pesto and savory tuna create an irresistible combination.

Ingredients for Healthy Tuna Pesto Pasta

Main Ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Dried pasta (penne, fusilli, etc.)	350 g (12 oz)
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Garlic (crushed)	2 cloves
Tuna (drained)	370 g (13 oz) can
Cracked black pepper	To taste
Sea salt / kosher salt	To taste

Cashew Pesto:

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh basil (stalks removed)	60 g (2 cups)
Parmesan cheese (grated)	40 g (½ cup)
Cashew nuts	40 g (¼ cup)
Lemon juice	1 tbsp
Lemon zest	1 tbsp
Olive oil	4-5 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the dried pasta and cook according to the package instructions, reducing the cooking time by one minute for al dente texture.
3. Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of the pasta water before draining.

2. Make the Cashew Pesto

1. In a small blender or mini food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, cashew nuts, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 4 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil if the mixture feels too dry.
3. Set the pesto aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Tuna

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the drained tuna and cook until heated through, breaking it into chunks with a spoon.

4. Combine Pasta, Pesto, and Tuna

1. Add the cooked pasta to the frying pan with the tuna and garlic.
2. Stir in the pesto and mix until evenly coated. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
3. Adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the pasta while it’s hot.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan or fresh basil leaves for a finishing touch.
3. Serve immediately and savor the vibrant flavors.

Tips for Perfect Tuna Pesto Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality Parmesan cheese make all the difference.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: It’s essential for creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Choose Your Tuna Wisely: Tuna packed in olive oil adds extra flavor, but water-packed tuna works if you’re watching your fat intake.
• Toast the Cashews: Lightly toasting the cashews before blending enhances their nutty flavor.

Creative Variations

1. Make It Gluten-Free

• Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.

2. Add Veggies

• Toss in cherry tomatoes, steamed broccoli, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

3. Vegan Option

• Use a plant-based Parmesan substitute and replace tuna with marinated artichoke hearts or chickpeas.

4. Spicy Twist

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~450
Protein	~25g
Fat	~15g
Carbohydrates	~50g
Fiber	~3g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Store the pasta and pesto separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta and mix with the pesto just before serving.

2. What other nuts can I use for the pesto?

If you don’t have cashews, try walnuts, pine nuts, or almonds for a different flavor profile.

3. Can I freeze the pesto?

Absolutely. Store the pesto in an airtight container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

4. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well.

5. Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?

Yes! Canned salmon is a great alternative that pairs well with pesto.

6. How can I make the dish more filling?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra heartiness.

Bring Freshness to Your Table

Healthy tuna pesto pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, vibrant flavors. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s a dish that balances convenience with wholesome nutrition.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of flavorful, creamy pasta that’s as good for you as it is delicious!

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