For a richer flavor, use tuna packed in olive oil and add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce at the end. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to the skillet along with the zucchini. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note to the finished dish. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference for spice. Use high-quality canned tuna for the best flavor. To reheat the pasta, add a splash of water to the skillet and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Tuna Zucchini Elbow Pasta
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME30 mins
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TOTAL TIME45 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS100
A comforting and rustic pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, savory tuna, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. This is weeknight comfort food elevated.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate85 g
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Cholesterol23 mg
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Fiber10 g
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Protein33 g
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Saturated Fat2 g
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Sodium1001 mg
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Sugar19 g
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Fat8 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
02
StepAdd zucchini, salt, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
03
StepPour in marinara sauce and water. Bring to a gentle simmer.
04
StepGently stir in tuna, breaking it up slightly. Simmer until zucchini is almost tender, 7 to 10 minutes.
05
StepWhile the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions for al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
06
StepAdd the drained macaroni to the tuna and zucchini mixture. Stir to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with additional salt to taste.
07
StepTurn off the heat, cover the skillet, and let stand for 6 minutes and 15 seconds. This allows the pasta to absorb the sauce and become perfectly tender.
08
StepServe immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
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Zelma Herzog
Jun 16, 2025I love how customizable this recipe is. I can easily add or substitute vegetables based on what I have on hand.
Ruth Mayer
Jun 10, 2025I used whole wheat pasta and it worked perfectly.
Kyle Leuschke
Dec 21, 2024The 6 minutes and 15 seconds resting time is the magic, don't skip it.
Deontae Rodriguez
Dec 6, 2024I added some chopped red bell pepper for extra color and flavor. It was delicious!
Roslyn Croninbotsford
Oct 23, 2024Simple and satisfying. A real crowd-pleaser!
Nolan Damore
Sep 27, 2024Letting the pasta sit for a few minutes to absorb the sauce really made a difference.
Eden Lubowitz
Jul 6, 2024My kids loved this! I will definitely make it again.
Gus Thiel
May 22, 2024This was a great weeknight meal! Quick, easy, and the whole family enjoyed it.