If you’re craving a dish that’s quick to make, full of bright flavors, and wonderfully satisfying, this Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe is just what you need. Combining tender al dente spaghetti with savory tuna, the briny pop of capers, and a fresh hit of lemon, it’s a vibrant Italian-inspired meal that bursts with personality. Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, creating a dinner that feels both special and effortlessly homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to bring balance, texture, and freshness to your Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role: the olive oil brings richness, garlic and red pepper flakes add warmth, while the lemon and parsley brighten the entire dish.
- 12 oz spaghetti: Perfectly holds the sauce and provides a satisfying base for the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness that complements the tuna and garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers aromatic depth and a bit of spicy kick.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
- 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in olive oil (drained and flaked): Offers tender, flavorful protein with a touch of the sea.
- 2 tablespoons capers (rinsed and drained): Bring a sharp, salty tang that lifts the flavors.
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional): Introduce a juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Provides a fresh, citrusy brightness that balances the dish’s richness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of herbal freshness for a perfect finish.
- Grated Parmesan for serving (optional): Offers a creamy, salty complement when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling your spaghetti in a big pot of salted water until it’s al dente, meaning tender but still with a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining — it will come in handy later to bring everything together seamlessly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the optional red pepper flakes, letting them cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes. This step releases fragrant aromas that create an inviting base for your sauce.
Step 3: Combine Tuna, Capers, and Tomatoes
Next, stir the flaked tuna, rinsed capers, and cherry tomatoes if using into the skillet. Cook everything for a few minutes to allow these flavors to mingle and the tomatoes to soften slightly, which adds a lovely juicy texture.
Step 4: Toss Pasta with Lemon and Sauce
Add your drained spaghetti back into the skillet along with the zest and juice of one lemon. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it perfectly coats every strand.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once off the heat, stir in fresh parsley for bright herbal notes. Serve immediately, and if you like, a scattering of grated Parmesan will take this dish from simple to sublime.
How to Serve Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic topping that brings a pop of color and light flavor. You can also add a lemon wedge on the side for those who want an extra zing. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or some shaved Parmesan rounds things out perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil to echo the pasta’s flavors. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is another winner, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the spaghetti in small bowls topped with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for texture. If you’re entertaining, toss the pasta in individual wide-rimmed plates and finish with a delicate sprinkle of fresh herbs and grated cheese for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spaghetti with tuna and capers stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep it chilled promptly to maintain the freshness of the tuna and herbs.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze particularly well because the texture of the tuna and pasta can suffer. To preserve quality, it’s better to freeze components separately if you want to save time later on.
Reheating
When ready to eat your leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can dry out the fish and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use water-packed tuna instead of oil-packed tuna?
Absolutely! While oil-packed tuna adds extra richness, water-packed tuna works fine and makes the dish a bit lighter. Just make sure to drain it well before adding.
Are capers necessary in this recipe?
Capers really bring a salty, briny punch that lifts the dish and creates its signature flavor contrast. If you don’t have any, a small amount of chopped green olives can be an interesting substitute.
Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
You can skip the tuna and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for a vegetarian spin. For vegan options, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. The capers and lemon ensure the flavors stay lively.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
Is cherry tomatoes an optional ingredient?
Yes, tomatoes add a subtle sweetness and a burst of juiciness, but the recipe shines even without them. Feel free to leave them out or swap in roasted red peppers for a smoky twist.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves easy, flavorful, and authentic Italian-inspired dinners. Its blend of simple pantry staples creates a dish that feels fresh, comforting, and just a little bit special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Spaghetti with Tuna and Capers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring spaghetti tossed with tuna, capers, garlic, and a bright touch of lemon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines pantry staples to create a satisfying main course with a balance of savory and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
Produce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Canned Goods
- 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Dairy (Optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add tuna, capers, and tomatoes: Stir in the flaked tuna, capers, and cherry tomatoes if included. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and tomatoes to soften slightly.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice, tossing everything together. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce for a silky consistency.
- Season and garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta, and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use oil-packed tuna for a richer flavor, though water-packed tuna can be substituted.
- Add olives or fresh spinach to vary the dish and add more layers of flavor.
- This recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight meals.
