Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
Creamy, spicy, and incredibly saucy – this Creamy Tuna Pasta is truly the weeknight pasta of your dreams. While some of the flavor combinations might sound a tad unconventional at first, trust me, this is one of those dishes that once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving and making it again and again. It effortlessly combines comfort with an exciting burst of flavor, making it a standout addition to your recipe repertoire.

What makes this Creamy Tuna Pasta recipe a true winner is how quickly its rich sauce comes together – often in the same amount of time it takes to cook your pasta. This efficiency is paramount for any successful weeknight meal, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also remarkably fuss-free, requiring minimal chopping and leaving you with very little washing up, which is always a bonus on a busy day. Yet, despite its simplicity, this isn’t just an “everyday” pasta dish. We all appreciate a bowl of quick and easy Pasta al Pesto, but this Creamy Tuna Pasta elevates the concept of ‘easy weeknight pasta’ to an entirely new level with its incredibly deep and vibrant flavors.
My personal journey with this recipe dates back to my childhood, where we enjoyed a version inspired by the legendary Antonio Carluccio, who famously used ginger in his sauce, adding an aromatic warmth. My culinary curiosity was further piqued when I saw Ixta Belfrage, another brilliant chef, incorporate curry powder into a similar dish (you can find her inspiring recipe here). The idea of curry powder in a creamy tuna pasta might seem surprising, or even unorthodox, but the resulting flavor profile is nothing short of magical. It’s a taste sensation you truly need to experience for yourself to fully appreciate its unexpected deliciousness and comforting depth.
Table of Contents
- Why You Will Love This Creamy Tuna Pasta Recipe
- The Secret to Its Unique Flavor: Curry Powder & Tuna
- Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tuna Pasta
- Customizing Your Tuna Pasta: Substitutions & Variations
- How to Make Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes (Step-by-Step)
- Expert Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuna Pasta
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuna Pasta
- More Delicious Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Made This Recipe? Share Your Creation!
- Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes (Full Recipe Card)
Why You Will Love This Creamy Tuna Pasta Recipe
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary experience designed for modern life, offering a blend of convenience, flavor, and satisfaction. Here’s why this creamy tuna pasta will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen:
- It is incredibly quick and simple, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can literally have this delectable meal on your table in less than 20 minutes, from the moment you start cooking to the first delicious bite!
- It is bursting with a unique and complex flavor profile that will genuinely surprise and delight your taste buds. The unexpected combination of aromatic spices, succulent tuna, and a luscious creamy texture truly sets it apart from traditional pasta dishes.
- The recipe utilizes affordable and accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any local grocery store. You won’t need to hunt for exotic or hard-to-find items, making it a budget-friendly and practical choice.
- Perfect for an easy lunch when working from home, a satisfying midweek supper for the whole family, or even a quick yet impressive meal for impromptu guests. It’s versatile enough to fit into any meal plan.
- It offers fantastic opportunities for customization, allowing you to easily adjust spice levels to your preference, add extra vegetables for a nutritional boost, or try different pasta shapes to suit your mood.
- The creamy sauce is inherently comforting and deeply satisfying, making it a perfect dish for any season, particularly on cooler evenings when you crave warmth and richness.
- Minimal washing up! The sauce comes together in one pan, drastically reducing post-dinner cleanup.

The Secret to Its Unique Flavor: Curry Powder & Tuna
The standout feature of this creamy tuna pasta is undoubtedly its distinctive and incredibly addictive flavor. The combination of succulent tinned tuna, sweet bursting cherry tomatoes, a subtle hint of chilli, and crucially, a touch of mild curry powder, creates an unexpectedly harmonious and deeply satisfying sauce. It’s a testament to culinary adventurousness that such diverse elements can come together to form something truly extraordinary. While traditional Italian pasta dishes don’t typically feature curry, this recipe beautifully bridges culinary traditions, offering a fresh, exciting, and wonderfully comforting take on a classic comfort food.
The inspiration for this unique twist stems from the innovative approaches of acclaimed chefs. Antonio Carluccio, a pioneer in Italian cuisine, introduced the idea of incorporating ginger, providing an aromatic warmth that complements the seafood. Later, Ixta Belfrage’s creative use of mild curry powder further developed this concept, adding an earthy, subtly spiced depth that perfectly cuts through the richness of the cream and beautifully complements the savory tuna and bright sweetness of the tomatoes. Don’t let the unconventional nature deter you; this is a flavor revelation that promises to surprise your palate and undoubtedly become a new favorite in your household.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tuna Pasta
Every truly great recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this amazing creamy tuna pasta, along with some important tips for choosing the best:
Key Ingredients:
- Tinned Tuna: The quality of your tuna makes a significant difference to the overall dish. While tuna in sunflower oil is commonly available, I highly recommend opting for tuna in olive oil for a superior flavor and a richer, more luxurious texture in your sauce. The oil from the tins is incorporated into the sauce, adding depth. Prioritize sustainably sourced options whenever possible. For an even more gourmet experience, consider investing in jarred tuna fillets packed in olive oil – the large, flaky chunks truly elevate the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems are crucial for the sauce’s freshness, vibrant acidity, and natural sweetness. This recipe truly shines when cherry tomatoes are in season – plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor. If fresh ones are not at their peak, high-quality baby plum tomatoes are an excellent and equally delicious alternative.
- Tomato Purée (or Paste): A small squeeze of concentrated tomato purée works wonders, intensifying the natural tomato flavor and adding a deep, umami richness to the sauce without making it overly watery. It provides a foundational depth that fresh tomatoes alone can’t achieve.
- Garlic Cloves: Two crushed garlic cloves provide a subtle yet essential aromatic base for the sauce. If you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to add an extra clove or two to enhance the pungent flavor. Fresh garlic is always preferred, but garlic granules or powder can be used in a pinch (use about ¼ teaspoon per fresh clove).
- Mild Curry Powder: This is the secret ingredient that completely transforms the dish into something extraordinary. I know it might sound unusual for a pasta sauce, but please trust the process – it truly works! It adds a warm, earthy, complex, and subtly spiced note that beautifully complements the tuna and cream, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile.
- Dried Chilli Flakes: A small pinch is all you need for a gentle, warming kick that adds a pleasant depth without overwhelming the other flavors. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level; add more for a bolder heat, or omit for a milder dish. For a smoky flavor without the heat, you can substitute with smoked paprika.
- Paccheri Pasta: This large, wide, tube-shaped pasta, originating from Campania in Southern Italy, is ideal for this recipe. Its robust shape and hollow interior are perfect for catching and holding the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is rich with flavor. If you can’t find paccheri, rigatoni or even penne rigate are excellent substitutes due to their similar shape and ability to absorb sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a wonderful salty, nutty, and umami depth to the pasta sauce, and is absolutely essential for both cooking and finishing the dish. Always grate your own from a block for the best flavor and melting quality; pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture and taste.
- Double Cream (Heavy Cream): This is what gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess, transforming it into a velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully. It also helps to mellow and balance out the subtle spices from the curry powder and chilli, creating a harmonious and indulgent mouthfeel.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous note at the very end, lifting the entire dish and adding a touch of elegance.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and tomatoes, and a final drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil before serving adds a fruity, peppery finish.
Customizing Your Tuna Pasta: Substitutions & Variations
One of the many beauties of this creamy tuna pasta recipe is its inherent flexibility. Feel free to adapt it to suit your pantry contents, dietary needs, or simply your unique taste preferences. Here are some fantastic ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Pasta Shape: While Paccheri is recommended for its excellent sauce-holding capabilities, don’t feel limited. Any sturdy tube-shaped pasta will work wonderfully. Rigatoni is an excellent and widely available substitute, as is penne rigate or even large shell pasta (conchiglie) for a fun, scoop-like twist. Linguine or spaghetti can also be used, though they won’t hold the chunky sauce quite as effectively.
- Cheese Alternatives: If traditional Parmesan isn’t available or preferred, Pecorino Romano offers a similar sharp, salty profile, albeit with a slightly sheepier taste. Any strong, hard cheese like a good quality mature Cheddar can also be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be distinct. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add an umami note, alongside a plant-based cream alternative.
- Garlic Options: Freshly crushed garlic offers the best and most vibrant flavor. However, if you’re short on time or don’t have fresh cloves, a pinch of garlic granules or garlic powder can be used. Remember that dried garlic is more concentrated, so use sparingly (approx. ¼ teaspoon dried per fresh clove).
- Spice Level & Flavor Adjustments:
- For a milder dish or for younger palates, simply omit the dried chilli flakes entirely or reduce the amount significantly.
- For a subtle smoky flavor without the heat, swap the chilli flakes for a pinch of smoked paprika.
- To increase the heat for those who love a fiery kick, feel free to add more chilli flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even a finely minced fresh red chilli with the garlic.
- Consider adding a tiny pinch of ground ginger or fresh grated ginger along with the curry powder for another layer of aromatic warmth, honoring Antonio Carluccio’s original inspiration.
- Tomato Varieties: Baby plum tomatoes are a perfect and readily available alternative to cherry tomatoes, offering similar sweetness and juiciness. In a pinch, canned diced tomatoes, well-drained, could also work, though they won’t provide the same fresh burst as whole small tomatoes.
- Fresh Herb Swaps: If parsley isn’t your favorite, fresh coriander (cilantro) offers a different but equally delicious aromatic finish, particularly with the curry notes. Fresh basil could also be a lovely addition, especially in summer, providing a sweet, peppery contrast.
- Adding More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content and add more texture by stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or baby kale at the very end, allowing it to just wilt into the hot sauce. Sautéed sliced mushrooms, finely diced bell peppers, or even a handful of frozen peas added towards the end of cooking can also be fantastic additions for extra bulk and flavor.
- Protein Boost: While tuna is the star, you could experiment with adding cooked prawns or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different protein profile. For a vegetarian option with added texture and protein, stir in some drained cannellini beans or chickpeas with the tomatoes.

How to Make Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes (Step-by-Step)
Creating this delicious creamy tuna pasta is surprisingly simple and comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for any busy evening. Follow these easy, detailed steps for a perfect, flavorful meal. Remember, the full, detailed recipe card with exact measurements is provided at the very bottom of this page for your convenience.

ONE: Begin by cooking your chosen pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions carefully, aiming for an al dente texture – firm to the bite. While the pasta cooks, start on the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant but crucially, do not let them brown, as this can make them bitter. Immediately add the cherry tomatoes to the pan.

TWO: Season the cherry tomatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook them for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll observe them beginning to soften and burst open. Once they have sufficiently softened, gently mash them with the back of a wooden spoon. This action helps to release their sweet juices, creating a rustic yet flavorful sauce base that will infuse the entire dish.

THREE: Carefully drain the tinned tuna, but remember to crucially reserve the flavorful olive oil from the tins. Add both the tuna and its reserved oil to the pan with the cooked tomatoes. Follow this by adding the tomato purée, mild curry powder, and dried chilli flakes. Season again with a touch more salt and pepper, then stir everything together thoroughly to ensure all the flavors are well combined. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring periodically to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and the tomatoes to fully integrate.

FOUR: Once your pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, drain it, making sure to reserve at least one cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This starchy liquid is a key ingredient! Add the cooked pasta directly into the frying pan with the simmering tuna sauce. Pour in a generous “glug” (approximately ¼ to ½ cup) of the reserved pasta water – this starchy liquid is vital for creating a beautifully smooth and emulsified sauce that will cling perfectly to every piece of pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated and glossy.

FIVE: Now, for the luxurious finish. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the rich double cream, and the finely chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is wonderfully rich, smooth, and velvety. Take a moment to taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might find it needs a little more salt, pepper, or even an extra tiny pinch of chilli flakes to hit your perfect flavor balance.

SIX: Spoon the creamy tuna pasta generously onto individual plates or into a large, inviting serving bowl. Finish each portion with a lavish sprinkle of additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch of richness, aroma, and authentic Italian flair, complete the dish with a final drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately and savor every delicious, comforting bite of your homemade creamy tuna pasta!
Expert Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuna Pasta
Achieving the perfect creamy tuna pasta is easy when you have a few insider tricks up your sleeve. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly, bursting with flavor and the ideal texture, every single time:
- Invest in Good Quality Tuna: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for a truly superior dish. For the silkiest, most flavorful sauce, always buy tuna packed in oil (preferably olive oil, not water or brine). The high-quality oil from the tuna tins is an integral part of the sauce, contributing significantly to its richness, depth, and emulsified texture. While tuna in sunflower oil is acceptable, tuna in extra virgin olive oil truly elevates the dish to a gourmet level. For an even more luxurious experience, seek out high-quality jarred tuna with large, tender flakes; the difference in taste and texture is undeniable and worth the slight extra cost.
- Harness the Power of Starchy Pasta Water: Never drain all your pasta water! Reserving about a cup of this cloudy liquid is a game-changer and a secret weapon of many professional chefs. As pasta cooks, it releases starch into the water, creating a slightly cloudy, viscous liquid. Adding a “glug” (approximately ¼ to ½ cup) of this starchy water to your sauce helps to emulsify it, binding the fats and liquids together. This magical process prevents greasiness and creates an incredibly smooth, glossy, and silky texture that perfectly clings to every strand of pasta. It’s the key to a professional-tasting, beautifully coated pasta sauce that truly takes this Creamy Tuna Pasta to the next level.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The term “al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian, referring to pasta that is firm yet tender when bitten, with a slight resistance in the center. Avoid the common mistake of overcooking your pasta, which can result in a mushy, unappetizing texture. Undercooked pasta, on the other hand, will be hard or chalky. Always follow the package instructions as a guide, but start testing the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to achieve that perfect al dente bite. Remember, the pasta will also finish cooking slightly when it’s tossed into the hot sauce.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning Liberally: Don’t be afraid to taste your sauce at various stages of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. This includes salt, freshly ground black pepper, and even the chilli flakes or curry powder. Flavors can develop and change as you cook, so a final taste test just before serving is absolutely essential for a perfectly balanced and seasoned dish that sings on your palate.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan is Best: While convenient, pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents and lacks the robust flavor of freshly grated cheese. For the best flavor, texture, and melting quality, always grate your Parmesan fresh from a block. It makes a significant difference in the final taste and creaminess of your sauce.
- Don’t Rush the Tomatoes: Allow the cherry tomatoes enough time to soften and burst in the pan. This crucial process releases their inherent sweet juices, which form a delicious, fresh, and vibrant base for your sauce. Gently mashing them ensures a rustic yet well-integrated tomato element throughout the dish.

Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes is a complete meal on its own, packed with rich flavor and satisfying textures. However, if you’re looking to elevate your dining experience, serve it as part of a larger spread, or simply add a refreshing contrast, here are some simple yet delicious suggestions:
- Crusty Bread or Focaccia: A classic pairing with any saucy pasta dish, a good crusty loaf of artisanal bread, a fresh baguette, or a warm slice of focaccia is absolutely perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious creamy sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette dressing (such as lemon-herb or balsamic) provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. It adds a welcome burst of freshness, a touch of vibrancy, and balances the meal beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: For an extra dose of nutrients and a complementary flavor profile, serve alongside some simply roasted asparagus, tender-crisp broccoli florets, or zucchini spears. Their slightly charred edges and earthy flavors complement the pasta wonderfully.
- Garlic Bread: If you are a true garlic enthusiast, a side of warm, buttery garlic bread will undoubtedly enhance the savory flavors in the pasta, creating an indulgent and comforting meal.
- Light White Wine: Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay to complement the seafood and creamy notes without overwhelming the spices.
Storage and Reheating Tips
The beauty of this creamy tuna pasta extends to its delicious leftovers, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or enjoying a quick and satisfying meal the next day. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it to maintain its best quality:
- Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Once cooled, store it promptly in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2-3 days. For optimal freshness, consume within this timeframe.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: For the best results and to maintain its creamy texture, reheat leftovers in a saucepan or a large frying pan over low to medium heat. The sauce will likely have thickened considerably in the refrigerator, so add a splash of milk, cream, chicken broth, or even a little water (or reserved pasta water if you have any left) to help loosen the sauce and bring back its original creamy consistency. Stir gently and continuously until the pasta is thoroughly warmed through, being careful not to boil vigorously.
- Reheating in the Microwave: If time is of the essence, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small splash of liquid (milk, water, or broth) to help rehydrate the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish to trap moisture and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until heated through. Be mindful not to overheat, as this can make the tuna rubbery and the sauce separate.
- Note on Consistency: It’s natural for the sauce to thicken significantly when chilled. The addition of a small amount of liquid during reheating is key to restoring its delightful original consistency and ensuring a satisfying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuna Pasta
Why do you add pasta water to the sauce?
Using the pasta cooking water in pasta sauces is one of my favorite chef’s tricks, and it’s absolutely vital for creating the perfect creamy tuna pasta. As the pasta cooks in boiling water, it releases its starches, creating a slightly cloudy, viscous liquid. When you add a splash of this starchy water to your pasta sauce, it acts as a natural emulsifier and thickener. For creamy or oily sauces like this one, it helps to bind the fats and liquids, preventing greasiness and creating a beautifully creamy, glossy, and silky-smooth texture that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta. It truly takes this Creamy Tuna Pasta to the next level, ensuring a luxurious and professional finish that makes all the difference.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of tinned?
While this recipe is specifically designed for the convenience and distinct flavor profile of tinned tuna (especially tuna in olive oil, which adds richness directly to the sauce), you could adapt it for fresh tuna. If using fresh tuna, you would typically sear it quickly until cooked to your liking (perhaps medium-rare for richer flavor) and then flake it into the sauce at the very end. Keep in mind that fresh tuna will have a different, more delicate texture and a milder flavor than tinned tuna, so the overall dish will be less intensely “tuna-y” and more subtle. You might also miss the flavorful oil that comes with tinned tuna.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
This recipe can absolutely be adapted for children! The amount of mild curry powder and the small pinch of chilli flakes are generally not overpowering. However, if serving to very young children or those who are particularly sensitive to spice, you can easily omit the chilli flakes entirely. You might also reduce the amount of curry powder to just a quarter teaspoon, or even skip it altogether and use a tiny pinch of ginger powder for warmth instead. The creamy, tomato-based sauce with familiar pasta is often a big hit with kids, especially with the spice adjusted.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Making this recipe dairy-free is certainly possible with some thoughtful substitutions. You would need to replace the double cream with a suitable plant-based cream alternative (such as oat cream, cashew cream, or full-fat coconut milk for an even richer texture, though the latter will impart a subtle coconut flavor). For the Parmesan cheese, you could use a high-quality dairy-free Parmesan substitute or incorporate nutritional yeast for its cheesy, umami flavor. The texture and flavor will be slightly different from the original, but the dish can still be incredibly delicious and satisfying.
How should I store leftover tuna pasta?
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, remember the sauce will have thickened, so add a splash of milk, cream, or water to bring it back to a desirable consistency, as detailed in our ‘Storage and Reheating Tips’ section.
More Delicious Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you loved the convenience, flavor, and comfort of this quick and flavorful creamy tuna pasta, you’ll be delighted to explore other easy and delicious recipes from our extensive collection. Perfect for busy weeknights, effortless entertaining, or whenever you simply crave something comforting and tasty:
- For another hearty and family-friendly pasta dish, be sure to try my satisfying Sausage Pasta Bake.
- If you’re a fan of luscious, creamy sauces, my irresistible Creamy Pesto Pasta is an absolute must-try.
- For ultimate simplicity and minimal cleanup, our One Pan Pasta and Peas is a weeknight lifesaver that delivers big on flavor.
- And for seafood lovers looking for more vibrant options, don’t miss this fresh Prawn and Tomato Linguine or the rich and spicy Prawn and Chorizo Pasta.
Looking for more innovative tuna recipes beyond pasta? Expand your culinary horizons with my fresh and zesty Ahi Tuna Salad or savor the bold and exciting flavors of my Spicy Tuna Bowl.
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And if you share a photo of your delicious creation on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @desertislanddishes. It absolutely makes my day to see you bringing my creations to life and sharing your cooking journey with our community!
Creamy Tuna Pasta with Chilli & Cherry Tomatoes
By: Margie
Creamy, spicy, saucy… this Creamy Tuna Pasta is the weeknight pasta of dreams – and it takes less than 20 minutes to put together. What’s not to love?
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 250 g dried paccheri pasta (or rigatoni/penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 250 g cherry tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 320 g tinned tuna in olive oil (undrained for best results)
- 50 g tomato purée (approx. 2 tbsp)
- ½ tsp mild curry powder
- Small pinch of dried chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
- 70 g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 80 g double cream (heavy cream)
- Handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
To Serve:
- Freshly grated Parmesan
- Good quality olive oil, to drizzle
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling, generously salted water according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, proceed with the sauce. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining.
- Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst. Gently mash them with the back of a wooden spoon to create a saucy base.
- Add the undrained tinned tuna (including the oil from the tins) to the pan, along with the tomato purée, mild curry powder, and dried chilli flakes. Season again to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly and continue to cook for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the drained, al dente pasta to the pan with the sauce. Pour in a generous “glug” (about ¼ to ½ cup) of the reserved starchy pasta cooking water. Stir vigorously to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated and the sauce emulsifies into a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the double cream, and the finely chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary – you might need more salt, pepper, or chilli.
- Spoon the creamy tuna pasta onto individual plates. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a final drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting, flavorful weeknight meal!
Notes
- Always use tuna in oil (preferably olive oil) for the best results and a truly silky sauce.
- If you prefer more heat, don’t hesitate to add extra chilli flakes to your taste.
- For an extra layer of flavor, a tiny pinch of ginger powder can be added with the curry powder.
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