A 20-Minute Meal That Tastes Like a Treat!
Welcome to your new weeknight savior! When you’re short on time but craving something satisfying and healthy, this Instant Pot Tomato Tuna Pasta with Zucchini Noodles is the answer. We’re swapping traditional pasta for light, vibrant zoodles and letting the Instant Pot do all the heavy lifting. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavor-packed, low-carb, and protein-rich meal on the table that tastes like it took hours to prepare. It’s the perfect guilt-free comfort food to add to your rotation!
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon diced onion
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 1 cup (240g) canned diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato sauce
• 1 can (5 ounces / 142g) tuna in water or oil, drained
• 2 cups (about 2 medium) zucchini noodles (zoodles)
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTÉ function. Once hot, add the butter and allow it to melt completely.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the onion has softened.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Press CANCEL to turn off the SAUTÉ function. Stir in the drained tuna, zucchini noodles, and chopped parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Secure the lid, set the steam release valve to the SEALING position, and select PRESSURE COOK (or MANUAL) on HIGH for 1 minute. Note: A short cook time is crucial to prevent mushy zoodles.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the steam release valve to the VENTING position.
7. Once the pin has dropped, carefully open the lid. Stir in the 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Divide the zoodle pasta between two bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• Per Serving
• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 8g
• Net Carbs: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 14g
Pro Tips
• For firmer zoodles, pressure cook the sauce without the zoodles for 1 minute. After the quick release, stir the zoodles into the hot sauce on the KEEP WARM setting and let them cook for 2-3 minutes.
• Boost the flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a little heat, or a teaspoon of dried oregano for an Italian touch.
• Don’t have zoodles? This recipe works wonderfully with other low-carb options like spaghetti squash or even steamed broccoli florets.
FAQ
Q: How do I prevent my zoodles from getting mushy
A: The key is a very short pressure cook time of only 1 minute. For even firmer results, pressure cook the sauce without the zoodles. After the quick release, stir the zoodles into the hot sauce on the ‘Keep Warm’ setting and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot
A: Yes, you can easily make this on the stovetop. Sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet, add the tomato products and simmer. Then, stir in the tuna, parsley, and zoodles, and cook for 2-4 minutes until the zoodles are tender-crisp before mixing in the Parmesan.
Q: What can I use instead of zucchini noodles
A: This recipe works wonderfully with other low-carb options. You can substitute the zoodles with spaghetti squash, palmini noodles, or even steamed broccoli florets for a different but equally delicious meal.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish
A: Certainly. Finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be great additions. Sauté them with the onion and garlic at the beginning for the best flavor and texture.
