Mediterranean Tuna Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the sauce base
   While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add fresh ingredients
   Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the olives and capers, stirring to combine.
4. Incorporate the tuna
   Gently fold in the flaked tuna, being careful not to break it up too much. Add the lemon zest and juice, then reduce heat to low to keep warm while the pasta finishes cooking.
5. Combine and finish
   Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tuna mixture. Toss gently to combine, adding splashes of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish and serve
   Remove from heat and stir in most of the parsley and basil, reserving some for garnish. Transfer to serving plates or a large serving bowl, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and the remaining herbs. Serve immediately while hot.