Tuna Noodle Casserole

Ingredients and Weight:

• Noodles: 500 grams (cooked weight)
• Tuna: 200 grams (canned or fresh)
• Cream of mushroom soup: 1 cup
• Butter: 50 grams
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Carrots: 1 cup, diced
• Peas: 1 cup
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Grated nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for a few minutes until they start to become tender.
4. Add the peas and continue cooking for another minute or two.
5. Pour the cream of mushroom soup into the pan and stir well. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
6. Add the cooked noodles and tuna, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
7. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs (optional) and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approx. 450 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
• Protein: 20 grams
• Fat: 20 grams (including saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams (including fiber)

Dish Characteristics:

• Comfort food with a creamy, rich flavor.
• Tuna adds a seafood element to the traditional noodle casserole.
• Easy to customize with different vegetables and seasoning.

User Comments:

1. "This dish was a hit with my family! The combination of tuna and noodles was unexpected but really delicious."
2. "I love how easy this casserole is to make, yet it tastes like a dish from a fine restaurant."
3. "Great dish for a weeknight meal – quick, filling, and full of flavor."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh vegetables for best results, but frozen will also work in a pinch.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste – add more salt or pepper if needed.
• For a richer flavor, use fresh tuna instead of canned. However, canned tuna is convenient and works well in this recipe.