Hello friends of Paulina Cocina! Macaroni is a very versatile pasta dish that everyone loves. Macaroni with tuna is great because it can be eaten both hot and cold .
For example, in a cold salad, mixing the cooked and cooled macaroni with the rest of the ingredients, or reheating it in a pan or in the oven before serving. This makes it a meal for any time of year.
Our suggestion is to try them in every way you can because macaroni goes well with whatever you have at home and your creativity. In the case of macaroni with tuna and tomato sauce, our idea is to give you the option of making a delicious, quick, and easy homemade sauce.
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About macaroni with tuna
While the most popular recipe is macaroni and cheese , the tuna and tomato recipe we're making today takes the cake. Macaroni and tuna is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine , specifically in Italy and Spain.
Although its exact origin is difficult to determine, the combination of pasta and tuna is believed to have existed for centuries and to have been influenced by the culinary traditions of different regions.
"pasta al tonno" is found , consisting of pasta mixed with canned tuna, usually in olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. It's a quick and inexpensive dish found in many Italian families.
In Spain, macaroni and tuna are also very popular and are often prepared with tomato sauce . It's a common dish in homes and restaurants, especially in the Andalusian region.
The combination of pasta and tuna is versatile and can be adapted to different cooking styles and preferences. Each region and household can have their own version of macaroni and tuna, adding additional ingredients such as onions, olives, peppers, or other spices to give it a distinctive touch.
Other options if you like tuna macaroni
Although macaroni with tuna and tomato is especially popular in Italy and Spain, similar dishes exist in other cultures. For example, in Greek cuisine, there is a similar recipe called "makaronia me tonno ," which combines pasta with tuna and tomato sauce.
In Mexico, macaroni is prepared with tuna and tomato , but with a spicy touch. It uses cooked macaroni, canned tuna, tomato sauce, onion, chopped chilies (such as jalapeños), and spices like cumin and chili powder.
Tuna noodle casserole is a classic American recipe. It combines cooked egg pasta, canned tuna, tomato sauce, peas, and shredded cheese. It's baked in the oven until hot and bubbly.
3 facts about macaroni and tuna
- This macaroni with tuna and tomato recipe can be easily adapted to meet different dietary requirements. For example, for a gluten-free diet, you can use corn pasta or gluten-free rice. Additionally, the seasonings and spices can be adjusted according to preferences or needs.
- Macaroni with tuna and tomato offers opportunities for creative presentations. You can serve it on a large platter as a main course, or in individual portions in bowls or ramekins. You can also garnish the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance its appearance.
- The combination of macaroni, tuna, and tomato in this recipe offers a balanced flavor : the pasta provides a neutral base, the tuna adds a salty, umami flavor, and the tomato contributes a touch of acidity and sweetness. This combination of complementary flavors makes this a delicious choice.
Macaroni with tuna and tomato recipe
Macaroni with tuna and tomato is a popular choice for quick and easy meals. They can be prepared quickly, making them a convenient option for weeknight meals or when you're short on time to cook. You'll love the flavor of this recipe!
Yield : 4 portions
Preparation time : 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 250 gr of macaroni
- 2 cans of tuna in water or oil, drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce (approximately 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spices such as oregano, basil or parsley for garnish
How to make macaroni with tuna and tomato in 5 steps
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. When they are tender and lightly browned, add the drained tuna. Mix well.
- Add the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes to the pan and stir. Simmer for a few minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pan with the sauce and mix well so that the macaroni is coated in the sauce.
- Cook over low heat for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
