- Apple Tuna Pasta Casserole Main Dish Ingredients:
- Canned light tuna in water, drained (1 can)
- Whole wheat spaghetti or any pasta of your choice (200g)
- Medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced (4 cups)
- Low-fat milk (250ml)
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon)
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (80g)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
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Steps
### Apple Tuna Pasta Casserole Recipe: A Festive Main Dish
#### Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) of pasta of your choice
- 1 can (6 oz/170g) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) of white wine or chicken broth
- 8 oz (225g) of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**Preparation:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apple, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the onions are soft.
**Mixing Ingredients:**
3. **Combine Tuna and Veggies:** Add the flaked tuna to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute.
4. **Add Liquids and Seasonings:** Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and sprinkle in dried thyme, if using. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly.
**Assembly:**
5. **Combine Pasta and Tuna Mixture:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tuna-vegetable mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
6. **Add Cheese:** Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the pasta mixture until it is evenly distributed.
### Baking:
7. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the pasta-tuna mixture into a greased baking dish.
8. **Top with Remaining Cheese and Bake:** Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
### Serving:
9. **Garnish and Serve:** Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Apple Tuna Pasta Casserole!
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By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delightful and comforting Apple Tuna Pasta Casserole that will surely become a family favorite!