Discover the innovative way of quickly cooking pasta in one pot, versatile enough for any type of pasta, and perfect for this creamy tomato tuna pasta. Get the most out of this dish by following my exact method, or adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or your family's preferences. This recipe shines with the optional addition of mascarpone, which transforms the sauce into an indulgently creamy delight.
Prepare the onion and tomatoes by cleaning and washing them.
If fresh tomatoes are not available, use canned diced tomatoes or tomato paste.
In a deep pan or thick-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until slightly browned.
Add the chopped garlic, stir, and cook for another minute.
Introduce the diced tomatoes, stir, and let it simmer.
Cooking time for tomatoes may vary based on juiciness. Keep stirring until the tomato sauce thickens. Canned tomatoes will cook faster.
Add the pasta, water, and salt to the pan. Stir thoroughly and wait for it to boil.
Once boiling, stir again, reduce heat to low, and cover the pan. Let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
Check the pasta's doneness after removing the lid. Stir, taste, and if needed, allow the pasta to cook further.
Add the mascarpone or cream cheese to the cooked pasta and mix well.
Incorporate the drained tuna, chopped basil or parsley, and ground black pepper into the mix. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors and for the pasta to absorb more sauce.
Feel free to adapt the recipe according to your preference, using various other ingredients - cooked chicken or turkey meat instead of tuna, fried bacon, seasoned mushrooms, etc.
After resting, stir the pasta one last time, serve, and enjoy!
For our family grated parmesan cheese is a fantastic topping at serving.
Bon Appétit!