Tuna Capellini with Mediterranean Flavors

This light and flavorful pasta dish brings together tender tuna and vibrant Mediterranean ingredients for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s both simple to make and delicious to enjoy.

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TIME25 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

Tuna Capellini with Mediterranean Flavors

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 pound capellini pasta 3 lemons, zested and juiced ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 2 cloves garlic, minced ½ teaspoon salt 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste 1 (5 ounce) can tuna packed in oil ½ (15.5 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Cook and Toss Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the capellini and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes, until it’s tender but still has a little bite to it. While the pasta cooks, squeeze the lemon juice into a big bowl, making sure to catch any seeds. Whisk in the olive oil, then stir in the Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and a pinch of crushed red pepper until everything is well mixed. Flake the tuna into the bowl, breaking up any big chunks, and gently fold in the cannellini beans. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it straight into the bowl with the tuna mixture. Give everything a good toss to combine, then serve it up right away.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to maintain a nice texture.
- Use high-quality canned tuna in olive oil for richer flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end to keep their brightness.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the lightness of capellini pasta with the bold, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. The tuna adds protein while keeping the dish satisfying without being heavy.

Serving ideas

Pair this meal with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine or a light lemon-infused sparkling water complements the fresh flavors nicely.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the pasta. For best results, add a splash of olive oil or water when reheating.