Spaghetti Puttanesca Recipe: A Bold and Flavorful Italian Delight

Spaghetti Puttanesca is one of those dishes that immediately transports you to a small Italian kitchen, where bold flavors meet simplicity. This pasta is a true Mediterranean classic, known for its tangy, savory sauce made with garlic, anchovies, olives, capers, and tomatoes. If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, this is the recipe for you.

Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious Spaghetti Puttanesca that’ll surely become a go-to in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Anchovies:
   Stir in the chopped anchovies and let them dissolve into the oil. This will take about 2 minutes, and it will create a flavorful base for the sauce.
4. Add Tomatoes and Olives:
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the chopped olives, capers, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, and let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   Divide the pasta among serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes:

• Anchovies: If you’re unsure about using anchovies, they’re a key ingredient in Puttanesca, giving the sauce that signature savory depth. If you’re not a fan, you can reduce the quantity or skip them, though it won’t taste the same.
• Heat Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice. Add more for a spicier version of the dish.
• Pasta Variety: While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this dish, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as linguine or penne.

Time and Serving:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage:

• Fridge: Store leftover Spaghetti Puttanesca in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: While it’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh, you can freeze the sauce for up to 1 month. However, pasta is best cooked fresh.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect:

• Olives and Capers: Feel free to use green olives or black olives if you prefer their flavor over Kalamata olives.
• Add Parmesan: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top when serving.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the anchovies for a vegetarian version. You can add extra olives or mushrooms for a rich, savory flavor.

How to Serve:

• Serve this Spaghetti Puttanesca with a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce. You can also pair it with a fresh salad of mixed greens to balance the richness of the pasta.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Skillet (for making the sauce)
• Knife and chopping board
• Grater (for cheese)

Health Benefits:

• Olives: Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and heart health benefits.
• Tomatoes: High in antioxidants like lycopene, which is great for skin health and reducing inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use any other pasta for Spaghetti Puttanesca?
   • Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. What can I substitute for anchovies in this recipe?
   • You can use fish sauce or miso paste as a substitute for anchovies if you prefer a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make Spaghetti Puttanesca ahead of time?
   • Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
4. Is Spaghetti Puttanesca spicy?
   • It can be, depending on the amount of red pepper flakes you use. Adjust to your taste preference.
5. Can I make this dish vegan?
   • Absolutely! Omit the anchovies and substitute with more olives, capers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Spaghetti Puttanesca is a quick and easy pasta dish that packs a punch with bold, tangy flavors. With its simple ingredients and rich, savory sauce, it’s the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests. Don’t be afraid to adjust the heat and the ingredients to suit your taste – the beauty of Puttanesca is in its flexibility. Enjoy your cooking, and be sure to savor every bite of this delicious, Mediterranean-inspired pasta.