Go Back
A close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy tuna pasta salad, mixed with peas, red peppers, and topped with fresh herbs.

Creamy Lemon Herb Tuna Pasta

A quick and satisfying weeknight meal, this creamy lemon herb tuna pasta combines tender pasta with flaky tuna, vibrant herbs, and a light yet luscious lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a busy evening.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Linguine or Spaghetti or other pasta shape of choice
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water or as needed
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1/2 medium Onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 5 oz cans Canned Tuna drained, preferably in olive oil
  • 1 large Lemon juice and zest
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill chopped (or 2 tbsp fresh basil)
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black Pepper to taste
  • Parmesan Cheese for serving, optional

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
  1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Combine Tuna and Cream
  1. Stir in the drained tuna, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Break up the tuna gently with a spoon. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
Finish and Serve
  1. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce appears too thick or dry, add more reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and fresh dill (or basil). Give it one final toss.
  3. Serve the creamy lemon herb tuna pasta immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious tuna pasta!

Notes

This tuna pasta is best served fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. For added flavor, consider adding capers or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.