Experience the bold and savory flavors of Traditional Spaghetti alla Puttanesca. This classic Italian pasta dish combines ripe tomatoes, briny olives, capers, and anchovies to create a robust and flavorful sauce. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.
Inspiring Quote
“Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” – Federico Fellini
Recipe Description
Spaghetti alla Puttanesca is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that hails from the southern regions of Italy, particularly Naples. The name “Puttanesca” is said to derive from the Italian word “puttana,” meaning “lady of the night,” suggesting that the dish was quick and easy enough to be made by those with little time to spare. This dish features a robust sauce made from pantry staples like tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. The combination of salty, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors creates a unique and satisfying pasta experience.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 anchovy fillets, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Procedure
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped anchovies, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies have dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, and capers. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pasta is well-coated and heated through.
- Season and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, a bold and flavorful pasta dish that embodies the essence of Italian cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its deliciously unique taste.
Additional Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the anchovies and add a bit of extra salt or seaweed for a similar briny flavor.
- This dish can be paired with a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.
Beverage Pairings
Spaghetti alla Puttanesca pairs well with:
- Wine: A robust red wine such as Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the bold flavors of the sauce.
- Beer: A light lager or a wheat beer pairs nicely with this dish.
- Non-alcoholic: A sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a chilled herbal tea are great options.