Spicy Tuna and Tomato Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 340 g dried penne rigate pasta (or similar short pasta)
02 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 - 1 large brown/yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons parsley stalks, finely chopped
06 - 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
07 - 800 g tinned crushed tomatoes
08 - 370 g tinned tuna in olive oil, drained
09 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 2 tablespoons baby capers, drained
11 - ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
12 - ⅓ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
13 - Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
14 - 1 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
15 - Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add salt to the water.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, parsley stems, and chilli flakes. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
03 - Add tinned crushed tomatoes and tuna to the pan. Swirl ¼ cup water into the tomato tins to capture any remaining tomato and pour into the pan. Break up tuna chunks with a wooden spoon. Add oregano, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 - In the meantime, cook the pasta in the boiling water according to the package instructions until just al dente. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
05 - Add pitted olives, capers, and fresh parsley to the sauce. Stir and warm through for a few minutes.
06 - Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to combine. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
07 - Plate the pasta and garnish with additional fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon over the dish before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Use freshly ground black pepper and sea salt for enhanced flavor.
02 - If you prefer more heat, add extra red chilli flakes.
03 - Save leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
04 - The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.