Easy Tuna Caprese Pasta (Fresh, Fast & Flavor-Packed)
If you love the bright flavors of a classic Caprese salad and the heartiness of a comforting pasta dish, this Easy Tuna Caprese Pasta is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s light yet satisfying, fresh yet comforting, and comes together in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
As a food writer, I’m always chasing recipes that feel elevated but don’t require a culinary degree to pull off. This one checks every box: pantry-friendly tuna, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s simple, vibrant, and incredibly crave-worthy.
Let’s dive in.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about combining Mediterranean flavors with everyday convenience. This dish works because:
- It’s quick – ready in about 30 minutes.
- It uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
- It feels light but filling, thanks to protein-packed tuna and creamy mozzarella.
- It works warm or at room temperature, making it great for meal prep or entertaining.
If you enjoy Italian-inspired comfort dishes like my Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce, this tuna variation offers a fresher, lighter spin.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli work beautifully)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1 ball (8 oz) fresh mozzarella, diced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
Pasta:
Penne and fusilli are ideal because they hold onto the tuna and tomato juices. You can also use farfalle or even spaghetti.
Tuna:
Tuna in olive oil adds richer flavor, but water-packed tuna works too—just add a splash more olive oil.
Mozzarella:
Fresh mozzarella is key for that Caprese feel. In a pinch, use mozzarella pearls or even shredded low-moisture mozzarella (though it won’t be quite as creamy).
Add-Ins:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Baby spinach for extra greens
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes, until they begin to soften and release juices. - Add the Tuna
Gently fold in the drained tuna. Cook for about 2 minutes, breaking it up slightly while keeping some larger chunks for texture. - Combine Pasta & Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the tomato-tuna mixture. Stir in diced mozzarella and allow it to soften slightly from the residual heat. - Finish with Basil
Remove from heat. Stir in torn basil and season with salt and freshly cracked pepper. - Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
Tips for Success
- Salt your pasta water well – it’s your first opportunity to build flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – it should be fragrant, not browned.
- Add mozzarella off heat so it softens but doesn’t fully melt into a stringy mess.
- Reserve a splash of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce.
If you love comfort pasta dishes but need speed, you might also enjoy my This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Here’s how I love to serve it:
Start with an appetizer:
Pair it with This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests for a simple yet elegant spread.
Add a refreshing drink:
A glass of This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days complements the fresh basil and tomatoes beautifully.
Finish with dessert:
Keep things easy with This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert for a crowd-pleasing finale.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
(Values will vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.)
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or enjoy cold as a pasta salad.
- Meal Prep Tip: Keep basil separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness.
This pasta actually tastes fantastic chilled the next day—making it a great lunch option.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more easy, crowd-pleasing recipes, check these out:
- Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests
- This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert
Final Thoughts
Easy Tuna Caprese Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create something incredibly satisfying. It’s fresh, colorful, protein-packed, and flexible enough for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you add a twist? Extra herbs? A squeeze of lemon? Leave a comment and let me know—and don’t forget to follow along for more fresh, approachable recipes.
Happy cooking!
— Jason Griffith
