Budget-Friendly Tuna Pasta

This easy Budget-Friendly Tuna Pasta is a light, nutritious meal that’s perfect for families on a budget. With a cost of just $1.05 per serving, it’s a healthy and satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rotini) - $1.00

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained - $1.50

• 1 tbsp olive oil - $0.10

• 3 cloves garlic, minced - $0.20

• 1/2 cup frozen peas - $0.30

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) - $0.10

• 1 lemon, juiced (optional) - $0.50

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) - $0.50

Total Cost: ~$4.20 (serves 4, $1.05 per serving)

Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in the drained tuna, frozen peas, and cooked pasta, tossing everything together. Add a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to help coat the pasta and make a light sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if using. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 8g

• Carbohydrates: 50g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 400mg

• Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick and easy meal ready in 20 minutes

• Made with affordable pantry ingredients

• Balanced with protein, carbs, and fiber

• Light and flavorful, perfect for weeknights

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Use pasta cooking water to create a light sauce for extra flavor

• Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

• Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the tuna

Substitutions

• Swap tuna for canned salmon or chicken for a different taste

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred

• Add fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread to make the meal heartier

• Pair with a simple side salad for added veggies

• Top with grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor