Pasta Puttanesca: The Perfect Italian Dish for a Quick and Easy Meal

Introduction

Pasta Puttanesca is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Made with simple ingredients like canned tomatoes, olives, and capers, this dish is packed with flavor and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. Plus, it’s vegetarian, making it a great option for those who are looking for a meatless meal. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to cook the perfect Pasta Puttanesca, step by step.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 400g spaghetti
• 400g canned tomatoes
• 50g black olives
• 2 tbsp capers
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the canned tomatoes, olives, and capers to the skillet, and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, and let cook for 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

• For a vegan version of this dish, simply omit the olives or replace them with sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
• To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta.
• If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• For a heartier meal, add some cooked shrimp or chicken to the skillet before adding the spaghetti.

Conclusion

Pasta Puttanesca is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With its bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that you’ll turn to time and time again. Plus, it’s vegetarian, making it a great option for those who are looking for a meatless meal. So the next time you’re in need of a quick and tasty dinner idea, give this Pasta Puttanesca recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQ

What is Pasta Puttanesca?

Pasta Puttanesca is a popular Italian pasta dish that originated in Naples. It is a simple yet flavorful dish made with tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies.

Can I make Pasta Puttanesca without anchovies?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Pasta Puttanesca by omitting the anchovies. You can add a pinch of salt to compensate for the missing umami flavor.

Can I use any type of pasta for Pasta Puttanesca?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta for this dish, but spaghetti, linguine, and bucatini are the most commonly used.

Can I use canned olives for Pasta Puttanesca?

Yes, you can use canned olives, but it is recommended to use fresh olives for a better texture and flavor.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but fresh herbs will give the dish a brighter and more vibrant flavor.

Can I make Pasta Puttanesca ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Pasta Puttanesca ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it before serving.

Can I add vegetables to Pasta Puttanesca?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplants to Pasta Puttanesca for more flavor and nutrition.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes, but make sure to use whole peeled tomatoes and crush them with your hands or a spoon before adding them to the dish.

How spicy is Pasta Puttanesca?

Pasta Puttanesca is a mildly spicy dish, but you can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes.