The Secret to Perfect Tuna Pasta

In this post, Gennaro Contaldo shares his recipe for the perfect tuna pasta. The key to this dish is using al dente rigatoni pasta combined with high-quality canned tuna. Gennaro emphasizes the importance of cooking the pasta until it is just tender, resulting in a satisfying texture that pairs well with the tuna.

To enhance the flavors, Gennaro suggests adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a sprinkle of black pepper. These simple ingredients complement the tuna and pasta, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.

Gennaro also highlights the versatility of this dish, explaining that you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Whether it's rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti, the choice is yours. The beauty of the recipe lies in its simplicity, making it a perfect go-to dish for any occasion.

Rigatoni pasta with tuna, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper

Plate of perfect tuna pasta garnished with fresh herbs

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best results with this recipe, Gennaro shares some helpful cooking tips. Firstly, he advises using a large pot of boiling salted water to cook the pasta. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings.

Additionally, Gennaro suggests stirring the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking together. Once the pasta is cooked, he recommends saving a small amount of the cooking water to add to the sauce. This starchy water helps to bind the pasta and sauce together, creating a silky texture.

Lastly, Gennaro emphasizes the importance of tasting the pasta before draining it. It should be cooked until al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite to it. Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture, so be sure to keep an eye on it.

By following these cooking tips, you can ensure that your tuna pasta turns out perfectly every time.

Cooking pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water

Tasting cooked pasta to ensure it is al dente