Authentic Spaghetti alla Puttanesca Recipe

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, meaning "whore's spaghetti," is a deceptively simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian pasta dish. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, with various legends surrounding its creation, but one thing is certain: its bold and pungent flavors have captivated palates for generations. Forget complicated sauces and precise measurements; this recipe embraces a rustic approach, focusing on the harmonious interplay of briny olives, sharp anchovies, pungent garlic, and ripe tomatoes. The result is a satisfyingly rich and savory pasta experience that's quick to prepare and even quicker to devour.

This authentic Spaghetti alla Puttanesca recipe prioritizes fresh, high-quality ingredients to showcase the true depth of flavor this classic dish offers. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked pasta and a sauce bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started with our detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Tools Needed

  • Frying pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Pot

Ingredients

  • Spaghetti
  • Plum tomatoes
  • Anchovy fillets
  • White wine
  • Capers
  • Garlic
  • Parsley
  • Hot pepper flakes
  • Olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Puttanesca Sauce

  • Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Add garlic and fry until fragrant.
  • Add anchovy fillets to the pan and cook until melted.
  • Add capers to the pan.
  • Pour in white wine and let it evaporate for 3-4 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Add garlic and fry until fragrant.Add capers to the pan.Pour in white wine and let it evaporate for 3-4 minutes.
Prepare the Puttanesca Sauce
  • Add chopped tomatoes, hot pepper flakes, and parsley to the pan.
  • Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Puttanesca Sauce

Step 2. Cook the Pasta

  • Cook spaghetti according to package directions, reserving some pasta water.
Cook spaghetti according to package directions, reserving some pasta water.
Cook the Pasta

Step 3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a little pasta water if needed.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add a little pasta water if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce

Step 4. Serve and Garnish

  • Chop the plum tomatoes, removing some seeds.
  • Serve immediately, optionally garnished with pecorino cheese and extra parsley.
Chop the plum tomatoes, removing some seeds.
Serve and Garnish

Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe

Tips

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don't overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned.
  • Adjust the amount of hot pepper flakes to your liking.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help create a creamy sauce.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I leave out the anchovies?

While anchovies provide a crucial umami depth, you can omit them if you dislike them. Substitute with a teaspoon of fish sauce or a little more capers for a similar salty brininess.

2. What kind of olives are best for Puttanesca?

Use good quality olives, ideally Castelvetrano or Kalamata. Their briny flavor is essential to the dish. Avoid pre-sliced olives, as they tend to be less flavorful.

3. Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned San Marzano tomatoes are a great option, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season. Just make sure to drain them well before adding them to the sauce.


There you have it – your own delicious plate of authentic Spaghetti alla Puttanesca. This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy the satisfying taste of this classic Italian recipe!