Overview

Spaghetti Puttanesca is a classic Italian dish known for its bold flavors and quick preparation. This pasta features a savory sauce made with tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic, making it a delicious and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Timing

Making the Spaghetti Puttanesca takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Olives and Capers: Stir in the sliced olives, capers, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate: Serve the spaghetti puttanesca in bowls.
2. Garnish: Top with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Spaghetti Puttanesca (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	10g
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	49g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Include anchovies for a traditional flavor or add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Vegetable Variations: Toss in some spinach or arugula for added greens.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Puttanesca is a flavorful and easy-to-make pasta dish that highlights the robust flavors of Italian cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste. Enjoy this delicious meal!