Pasta alla Puttanesca: A Bold and Flavorful Dish

Puttanesca

Pasta alla puttanesca is one of my all-time favorite pasta dishes to make in a hurry. Since none of the ingredients are fresh it is easy to have the right ingredients on hand. It is easy to make and all the ingredients basically just get thrown in the pan together, cooked briefly, cooked then toss in the pasta with a splash of pasta water.

Puttanesca Ingredients

Pasta alla Puttanesca is a traditional Italian dish that has been tantalizing taste buds for generations. This bold and flavorful pasta dish is made with a sauce of tomatoes, capers, olives (black olives are typical but whatever you have on hand is fine), anchovies, and garlic, all simmered together to create an umami tomato sauce as you have never tasted in your life.

Despite its seemingly simple ingredients, the flavors in Pasta alla Puttanesca are anything but basic. The salty tang of the capers and olives, combined with the umami flavor of the anchovies, create a depth of flavor that is hard to beat. The garlic and tomatoes add a fresh and bright twist to this dish.

Puttanesca Sauce ingredients
Puttanesca Ingredients – for two

Not only is Pasta alla Puttanesca delicious, but it is also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta, this dish can be made to suit your dietary needs. You can also add ingredients such as red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or fresh basil for a touch of freshness.

So why not consider this bold and flavorful dish for your next meal? Not only will it please your taste buds, but it is also quick and easy to make. Simply boil the pasta, cook the sauce, and ecco! You have a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes.

Puttanesca sauce simmering.

Puttanesca is versatile

When it comes to pasta dishes, Pasta alla Puttanesca stands out for its rich and complex flavor profile. This dish originated in Italy and is thought to have been created as a quick and easy meal for the prostitutes, or puttane, in the area. Hence, the name Pasta alla Puttanesca.

One of the best things about this dish is that it can be made with ingredients that are commonly found in most pantries and refrigerators. This means that you can enjoy a delicious meal without having to go to the grocery store. Additionally, the ingredients used in Pasta alla Puttanesca are relatively inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

Another great aspect of this dish is its adaptability. You can use any type of pasta you prefer, from spaghetti to penne, and you can also adjust the sauce to your liking. If you like your food on the spicy side, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. My favorite is to add guanciale if you are not making a vegetarian dish. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a splash of white wine. Are any other leftovers in the fridge? Toss them in too, why the hell not? It’s a whore-style pasta after all.

Finally, Pasta alla Puttanesca is a great option for those who are looking for a meatless meal. The combination of vegetables and protein-rich ingredients such as anchovies makes this dish a nutritious and filling meal.

Pasta being added to pasta lla putanesca.

So if you are looking for a pasta dish that is full of flavor and easy to make, look no further than Pasta alla Puttanesca. With its bold and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Other Delicious Pasta Dishes

Puttanesca

Pasta Alla Putanesca

A Bold and Flavorful Italian Dish
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Lunch, Primi
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Clove Garlic Minced
  • 1 28 oz Can San Marzano Tomatoes Crushed
  • 4-5 Filet Anchovie Minced
  • 1 tbsp Capers Minced
  • 2 tbsp Olives Minced
  • Chili Flakes Optional
  • Parmigiano Regiano Grated – optional

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta

  • Boil water and add salt
  • Cook the pasta for 1 minute less than recommended
  • Reserve some pasta water

Prepare your Ingredients

  • Mince all garlic, anchovies, capers, and olives

Start the Sauce

  • Your ingredients should have enough oil on them, but if not add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Add all minced ingredients to a medium high pan. Let cook for five minutes.
  • Add San Marzano tomatoes. Crush into the pan. Lower the temprature to medium and let cook until pasta is al dente.

Finish the Pasta

  • Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss.
  • Add small amounts of pasta water and reduce slightly until you reach the ideal texture.

Plate

  • Plate the dish and buon appetito!

Notes

  • Boil the pasta with less water than usual to concentrate the starches, improving the flavor and texture of the sauce.
  • Cook the pasta in boiling water for 1 minute less than recommended
Keyword Authentic

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