Delicious homemade Vegetarian Tuna Pasta - Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions

Vegetarian Tuna Pasta

This Vegetarian Tuna Pasta is a delightful and savory twist on a classic dish, featuring protein-rich chickpea 'tuna' and a medley of vegetables tossed in a creamy lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, offering a satisfying meal for vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.

⏱️
15
min prep time
🔥
15
min cook time
🍽️
4
servings
📊
Easy
difficulty

🛒Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

🔧Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium bowl
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

📝Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

  2. 2

    In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until they are mostly broken down but still have some texture.

  3. 3

    Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well until combined.

  4. 4

    Season the chickpea mixture with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.

  5. 5

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the red onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add the cherry tomatoes and black olives to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

  7. 7

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Stir in the chickpea mixture until everything is well combined and heated through.

  8. 8

    Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

  9. 9

    Serve warm and enjoy your Vegetarian Tuna Pasta!

🥗Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350

🏷️Recipe Tags

vegetarianpastaquickeasyweeknight mealprotein-rich

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan version and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or rotini.

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