Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna

Name: Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz dried spaghetti; 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna in oil or water, drained; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 2 tbsp capers, rinsed; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Published: February 18, 2026

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna

This incredible Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna:

Spaghetti: Use dried spaghetti for best results; al dente pasta serves as the perfect base to soak up that luscious sauce.
Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in oil or water; it adds richness without overwhelming other flavors.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are essential; they infuse every bite with aromatic goodness that sets this dish apart.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet; they burst in your mouth and add a nice contrast to the salty components.
Black Olives: Choose Kalamata olives for their briny flavor which complements the dish beautifully.
Capers: These tiny flavor bombs bring a delightful tang that elevates the entire dish to gourmet status.
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of these adds just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming your palate.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it makes everything taste better!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop garlic finely, halve cherry tomatoes, and drain the canned tuna if packed in water.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds) but be careful not to burn it!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Simmer

Toss in cherry tomatoes along with olives and capers into the skillet. Stir well and let everything simmer together for about five minutes until tomatoes soften.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once pasta is al dente, reserve some pasta water (about half a cup) then drain remaining water from spaghetti. Add spaghetti directly into your skillet along with drained tuna; mix gently.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Serve

If needed, add reserved pasta water little by little until desired consistency is reached. Plate generously and enjoy your elegantly simple Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna!

This dish promises to tantalize your taste buds while being quick enough for even those challenging weeknights when energy levels are low but cravings are high!

You Must Know About Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna

This showstopping Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by cooking your spaghetti in boiling salted water while sautéing garlic, capers, and olives in olive oil. Once the pasta is al dente, toss it with the sauce and add drained tuna to finish.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap the tuna for anchovies if you’re feeling adventurous. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna

This professional-quality Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Nothing beats that moment when I served this dish at a family gathering, and my brother exclaimed that he could eat it every day! It’s those little victories that make cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

What is Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?

Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is a flavorful Italian pasta dish that features a rich tomato sauce, olives, capers, and the delightful addition of tuna. This dish originates from Naples and is known for its robust flavors. The combination of salty olives and capers enhances the umami taste of the tuna, making it a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.

How do I make Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?

To make Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna, start by cooking spaghetti in salted water until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil until fragrant. Add canned tomatoes, olives, and capers. Let this sauce simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and combine it with the sauce, then fold in drained tuna gently to avoid breaking it too much. Finish with fresh parsley and serve hot for an easy yet delicious meal that everyone will love.

Can I use fresh tuna for Spaghetti Puttanesca?

Yes, you can certainly use fresh tuna for Spaghetti Puttanesca if you prefer a fresher taste over canned. Simply sear or grill fresh tuna steaks until cooked to your liking and then flake them into the sauce before serving. This adjustment gives your dish a different texture and flavor profile while still maintaining the essence of traditional Puttanesca. Fresh tuna can elevate this dish even further, providing a gourmet twist on this classic recipe.

What variations can I try for Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna?

There are several variations you can explore when making Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna. For instance, you might add anchovies for extra depth or toss in some sautéed bell peppers for added sweetness. You could also substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta if needed. Adding fresh basil or arugula as a finishing touch can brighten up the dish as well. These tweaks keep the recipe exciting while allowing room for creativity in your kitchen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna is an easy-to-make yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. With its bold flavors from olives, capers, and tomatoes combined with tender pasta and nutritious tuna, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to follow traditional recipes or explore creative variations, this dish guarantees comfort and satisfaction at every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure with Spaghetti Puttanesca with Tuna!