Healthy Protein-Packed Tuna Pesto Pasta

Protein-Packed Tuna Pesto Pasta offers a refreshing blend of flavors and high-quality protein. The combination of protein-enriched pasta, canned tuna, and homemade basil pesto makes it a quick yet filling meal. Ideal for those who need something nutritious and fast, it’s light but satisfying.

This Protein-Packed Tuna Pesto Pasta is a healthy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The homemade pesto sauce adds a burst of fresh, herby flavors, while canned tuna contributes lean protein. Using protein-enriched pasta boosts the dish’s nutritional value, making it a well-balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Protein-Packed Tuna Pesto Pasta

a healthy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Food processor or blender for pesto
• Mixing bowl
• Strainer

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz protein-enriched pasta
• 2 cans of tuna in water drained
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the protein-enriched pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a food processor, blend the basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until evenly coated. Add the drained tuna and mix gently.
• Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

- Swap canned tuna for grilled chicken or salmon for variety.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the tuna and increase the amount of pesto.
- Use whole-grain or gluten-free protein pasta for additional health benefits.

Keyword healthy pasta recipe, high-protein meals, high-protein pasta, protein pasta, quick dinners, tuna pesto pasta

Nutrition and Calories (per serving):
– Calories: 450
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Protein: 32g
– Fat: 20g
– Sodium: 500mg
– Sugar: 2g

Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @cookwithexperts on Instagram and hashtag it #cookwithexperts.