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Spaghetti alla Puttanesca

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time10 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time30 mins

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca is a bold and briny Italian pasta dish known for its rich, savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, olives, capers, and anchovies. This classic dish from Naples, Italy, is a quick and easy meal bursting with umami and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca

For the Sauce
 2 tbsp olive oil
 4 cloves garlic (minced)
 6 fillets (finely chopped)
 ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
 ½ cup black or Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
 2 tbsp capers (rinsed and drained)
 1 tsp dried oregano
 ½ tsp black pepper
 ¼ tsp salt (adjust as needed)
 ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
 ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For the Pasta
 12 oz spaghetti
 1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
 ½ cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)
For Garnish
 Fresh parsley (chopped)
 Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
 Extra olive oil for drizzling
Cook the Pasta
1

  • Boil the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
    • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions (8-10 minutes for al dente).
  • Reserve Pasta Water:
    • Before draining, save ½ cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
  • Drain and Set Aside.
Make the Puttanesca Sauce
2

  • Heat Olive Oil:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté Garlic and Anchovies:
    • Add minced garlic, chopped anchovies, and red pepper flakes.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and anchovies melt into the oil.
  • Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
    • Stir in crushed tomatoes and cherry tomatoes.
    • Add oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
    • Let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
  • Add Olives and Capers:
    • Stir in sliced olives and capers, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
3

  • Toss Pasta with Sauce:
    • Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  • Adjust Consistency:
    • If needed, add reserved pasta water (a little at a time) for a silkier texture.
  • Final Touches:
    • Stir in fresh parsley for brightness.
Serve and Garnish
4

  • Plate the Pasta:
    • Divide the spaghetti among serving plates.
  • Top with Garnishes:
    • Sprinkle with extra parsley and grated Parmesan (if using).
    • Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for extra richness.
  • Pair with a Side:
    • Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Pro Tips
5

  • For Extra Depth: Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes for a more intense flavor.
  • Make It Vegan: Skip anchovies and use extra olives for umami.
  • For a Lighter Version: Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size