Pasta with creamed broccoli and tuna is one of those dishes that is born a bit by chance, perhaps on an evening when the fridge doesn’t offer much inspiration, and then ends up becoming a little home classic. Simple to prepare and incredibly comforting. It’s the ideal recipe when you want to put something creamy and tasty on the table without spending hours at the stove. The broccoli turns into a delicate velouté, the tuna adds character, and together they create a sauce that always wins everyone over. One of those clever solutions that make the family happy and save dinner.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Cooking time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 4 Servings
- Cooking methods: Food processor, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter and Spring
Ingredients for pasta with creamed broccoli and tuna
- 11 oz pasta (I used linguine)
- as needed water (for cooking the pasta)
- 2 1/4 cups broccoli (florets)
- 3/4 cup water
- 2/3 cup golden onion
- 3 oz tuna in oil (drained weight)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch hot chili pepper
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 clove garlic
Tools
- 1 Food processor Bimby tm31 – tm5 – tm6 – tm7
- Pots
- Blenders
Preparation of pasta with creamed broccoli and tuna
WITH BIMBY: Place the onion pieces, garlic and chili into the bowl and chop at speed 5 for 5 seconds. Scrape down the sides with the spatula, add the oil and sauté for 3 minutes at 212°F (100°C) speed 1. Add the broccoli florets, the water and a pinch of salt. Cook for 25 minutes at 212°F (100°C) speed 1.
Meanwhile cook the pasta in a large pot. At the end, when the Bimby cooking is finished, add the tuna and blend everything for 20 seconds at speed 7. When the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss with the cream.
WITHOUT BIMBY: In a pan cook the chopped onion and garlic together with the chili and the oil. Lightly sauté, then add the broccoli florets, season with a bit of salt and give a quick stir. Finally add the water and let cook until the broccoli is tender.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in another pot. When the broccoli is ready, add the tuna and blend everything until you obtain a smooth cream. At this point you can dress the pasta.
A few tasty variations
🍋 Fresh lemon variation
Add grated lemon zest to the broccoli cream: fragrant, light and very popular in healthy recipe searches.🧀 Super creamy variation
Stir in 1 tablespoon of spreadable cheese or ricotta for a silkier texture. Ideal for those looking for “creamy pasta without cream”.🥑 Protein-rich and light variation
Add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt (2–3 tbsp) to the broccoli cream: more protein, fewer calories, perfect for those seeking fit recipes.
TIPS and NOTES
Pasta with creamed broccoli and tuna tastes best fresh, but it keeps well if you need to prepare it ahead.
⏱ How long it keeps
In the refrigerator: 1 day, maximum 2. Tuna is a delicate ingredient, so it’s better not to go beyond that.
In the freezer: not recommended. The broccoli cream tends to change texture and the pasta becomes mushy.
🥣 How to store it best
Transfer it to an airtight container as soon as it cools.
When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil to bring the cream back to the right consistency.
Preferably heat in a pan over low heat, stirring.
🍷 Wine pairing
Pasta with creamed broccoli and tuna has a delicate yet flavorful character: the sweetness of the broccoli combines with the saltier note of the tuna, creating a balance that pairs well with fresh, aromatic white wines. Ideally choose a label that cleanses the palate without covering the flavors of the dish.
🤔 Recommended wines
Vermentino Fresh, slightly aromatic and with a nice sapidity that recalls the tuna.
Fiano Softer and more enveloping, perfect if the broccoli cream is particularly velvety.
Sauvignon Blanc Its herbaceous notes pair very well with broccoli, creating a very harmonious match.
Pinot Grigio A simple and always effective choice, especially if you prefer a more neutral and drinkable wine.
🍾 For sparkling wine lovers
Prosecco Brut or Franciacorta Satèn The bubbles lighten the creaminess of the dish and make each bite more lively.
