This Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines simple pantry staples to create a delicious, hearty meal in under 30 minutes.
What is Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta?
Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta is a simple yet satisfying recipe that pairs flaky tuna and sweetcorn with perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy or tangy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that’s great for families and meal prep.

Other Popular Recipes
- Jamie Oliver’s Squash and Spinach Pasta Rotolo
- Jamie Oliver Seafood Pasta
- Jamie Oliver Simple Courgette Pasta
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in less than half an hour.
- Uses pantry staples: Ingredients like tuna, sweetcorn, and pasta are often on hand.
- Budget-friendly: A delicious meal that’s easy on the wallet.
- Kid-approved: Sweetcorn adds a touch of sweetness that kids love.
- Versatile: Works well with various types of pasta and additional vegetables.
Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta
- Pasta: 300g (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape).
- Canned tuna: 2 tins (in olive oil or brine, drained).
- Sweetcorn: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained).
- Cream or crème fraîche: 100ml (optional for creaminess).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon.
- Fresh parsley: A handful, chopped.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Grated cheese: Optional for topping (parmesan or cheddar).
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta.
- Medium frying pan for the sauce.
- Colander for draining pasta.
- Wooden spoon for mixing.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add tuna and sweetcorn
Stir in the drained tuna and sweetcorn. Cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking up the tuna slightly as it warms.
Step 4: Create the sauce
If using cream or crème fraîche, add it now along with the reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine and create a silky sauce.
Step 5: Combine pasta with sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and grated cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta
- Garlic bread: A classic side to mop up the sauce.
- Simple salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness.
- Steamed vegetables: Add extra nutrients and color.
- Roasted tomatoes: A juicy and flavorful addition.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta
- Use good-quality tuna: Tuna in olive oil adds extra flavor.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Add pasta water gradually: Adjust the sauce’s consistency to your preference.
- Enhance flavor with herbs: Parsley, basil, or dill work well.
- Incorporate extra veggies: Peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added.
- Serve fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
What are the Variations of Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta?
- Tomato-based sauce: Use canned tomatoes instead of cream.
- Cheesy bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden.
- Add olives or capers: For a Mediterranean twist.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Vegan option: Replace tuna with chickpeas and cream with a plant-based alternative.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta?
- In the refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of pasta and sweetcorn may change when frozen.
How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta?
- On the stovetop: Heat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil.
- In the microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta Healthier?
- Use whole-grain pasta: Adds fiber and nutrients.
- Skip the cream: Use more pasta water or a dash of olive oil for a lighter sauce.
- Add more vegetables: Include spinach, zucchini, or peppers for extra nutrition.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 12g
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna in this recipe?
Yes, fresh tuna can be used as a substitute. Cook it lightly in the pan before adding sweetcorn and proceeding with the recipe. Ensure it is flaked into bite-sized pieces.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, skip the cream and cheese. Use a splash of olive oil, pasta water, or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a creamy texture.
Can I make Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta ahead of time?
This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.
What is the best pasta shape for tuna sweetcorn pasta?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well. However, spaghetti or linguine can also be used for a different presentation.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta is a comforting and versatile recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
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PrintJamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta Recipe
Jamie Oliver Tuna Sweetcorn Pasta is a simple yet satisfying recipe that pairs flaky tuna and sweetcorn with perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy or tangy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that’s great for families and meal prep.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300g (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape).
- Canned tuna: 2 tins (in olive oil or brine, drained).
- Sweetcorn: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained).
- Cream or crème fraîche: 100ml (optional for creaminess).
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon.
- Fresh parsley: A handful, chopped.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Grated cheese: Optional for topping (parmesan or cheddar).
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the garlic
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add tuna and sweetcorn
Stir in the drained tuna and sweetcorn. Cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking up the tuna slightly as it warms.
Step 4: Create the sauce
If using cream or crème fraîche, add it now along with the reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine and create a silky sauce.
Step 5: Combine pasta with sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and grated cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.