Our Penne Pasta with Creamy Avocado, Tuna, Tomato and Basil is a delightful and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. Quick to prepare, this recipe combines the rich creaminess of avocado with the savory flavors of tuna, complemented by the freshness of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal!
INGREDIENTS:
1 small bunch parsley, finely chopped
1 small bunch basil, finely chopped (reserve some leaves for garnish)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil + extra for pan
2 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
10 cherry tomatoes, each cut into quarters
1 avocado, peeled and chopped
Grated zest of 1 lemon
2 3.25 cans Dave’s Gourmet Seafood albacore (tuna) or Steelhead trout, drained
1 lb. penne pasta
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Garnish: A few whole basil leaves or sprigs
METHOD:
In a small bowl, combine the parsley, basil, olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Heat a small pan with a tablespoon tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook over low heat until onion is softened and translucent. Add to the herb mixture.
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped avocado and mix gently with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Add the chopped cherry tomatoes and toss gently.
Flake the tuna into chunks in a separate bowl.
Cook the penne pasta al dente per directions on package. Drain.
To the drained pasta, add the herb mixture and gently toss to coat the pasta. Add the avocado, tomatoes, and lemon zest and fold in gently. Add the tuna and fold in gently. Check for seasoning — add salt and pepper as desired. Place in serving bowl.
Finish dish with additional olive oil, if desired. Garnish with basil leaves. Serve immediately.
