Tuna and Onion Pasta

Name: Tuna and Onion Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Spaghetti 11.3 oz; Tuna filet fresh 7 oz; Red Tropea onions 2; Taggiasca olives 1.8 oz; Marjoram to taste; Extra virgin olive oil to taste; Fine salt to taste; Black pepper to taste

it de es fr br

Lactose Free

Difficulty: Very easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Serving: 4
Cost: Low

PRESENTATION

Recipe by
Lulù Gargari

Pasta tonno e cipolla—seriously good—is one of those dishes that just brings the sweet and fresh vibes of Southern Italy right to your table. And listen, Tropea red onions, known for their natural sweetness and mild bite, totally steal the show here. They blend perfectly with tender pieces of tuna. People in Calabria love these onions, and you know what? It’s no surprise why. They make this tuna pasta recipe stand out from all the rest.

Here's the deal: Instead of being heavy, this combo stays light and keeps the tangy Mediterranean vibe going strong. Really, it's pretty simple. With just a handful of ingredients, you end up with something special and satisfying. Every bite gives you that little burst of moist tuna paired with gentle onion flavor—so so good.

Throughout Southern Italy, folks have been making easy tuna pasta like this forever, especially along the coast where fresh fish and local veggies are everywhere. It’s not fancy—just good food that comes together quickly. Perfect for busy days, or when you crave something comforting without the fuss. Some families even toss in a bit of parsley or a squeeze of lemon to add brightness. Which is great. But the classic way? It's all about that balance between onion and tuna.

Now, while other versions like tuna pasta salad and even tuna pasta bake pop up in different parts of Italy, this Calabrian style keeps it super simple and light. The pasta soaks up the juicy flavors, and the dish gets even better with a drizzle of good olive oil.

Pretty much, you end up with a plate that’s both tender and simple, perfect for anyone who loves real, straightforward food. No question. It's no wonder pasta with tuna and onion remains a favorite among those who appreciate the everyday magic of Italian cooking. Hosting a dinner or just having a quiet meal at home? This dish gives you a really, really good taste of Southern Italy.

How to prepare Tuna and Onion Pasta

To prepare tuna and onion pasta, start with the onions: clean them and slice them thinly 1, then place them in a pan with the oil 2 and a pinch of salt 3.

Add the pepper 4 and gently stew them, adding a ladle of water 5. Cook on low heat with the lid on for about 5 minutes, or until they are wilted 6.

Meanwhile, cut the fresh tuna fillet first into slices about 1/2 inch thick 7, then into strips, and finally into cubes, all the same size 8. At this point, you can add the tuna to the onions 9.

Add the olives 10 and sauté for about 5 more minutes over high heat 11. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water. Drain the pasta al dente and transfer it to the pan with the sauce 12, then briefly toss everything to combine.

Plate 13 and garnish with a bit of marjoram for freshness 14. Your tuna and onion pasta is ready to be served!

Storage

It is recommended to consume the tuna and onion pasta immediately.

Tip

If you wish to add a hint of fresh acidity to your tuna and onion pasta, you can deglaze the sauce with lemon juice or garnish the dish with grated lemon zest.

For the translation of some texts, artificial intelligence tools may have been used.

Tuna and Onion Pasta

PRESENTATION

How to prepare Tuna and Onion Pasta

Storage

Tip

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