Classic Spaghetti Puttanesca | Classic Puttanesca Pasta Recipe
Spaghetti Puttanesca is a bold, flavour-packed Italian classic that brings together pantry staples like olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s quick to make, deeply savoury, and perfect for those weeknights when you crave something comforting and effortless.
Bold, satisfying, and incredibly easy, Spaghetti Puttanesca proves that great food doesn’t need a long ingredient list, just the right ones. Looking to elevate your pasta nights? Explore San Remo’s full range of premium pasta and curated recipes to bring authentic Italian flavour to your kitchen. Discover more at San Remo »
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prep time10minuti
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cook time15minuti
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serves5people
Ingredients
Method
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In a pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente.
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Heat oil in a large sauté pan, add anchovies and break them down in the oil to create a paste.
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Next add the garlic followed by the chilli flakes and gently fry off.
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Add the tinned tomatoes followed by the olives and capers. Stir to combine. Add a few basil leaves and cook at a gentle simmer while the pasta is cooking.
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Add the chopped parsley, and freshly cracked black pepper to the sauce followed by the drained pasta. Stir well to combine.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving and enjoying with family and friends!
Tips & Tricks
- Cooking Tips for Beginners: Prepare all ingredients beforehand, as this sauce comes together quickly! Use quality anchovies that dissolve into the sauce to add a deep umami flavour, and gently sauté the garlic to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Achieving the Perfect Sauce Texture: Let the tomato base simmer gently to reduce slightly for a thicker, richer sauce, add a splash of pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles, and crush the tomatoes by hand to create a rustic texture that complements the dish.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Since olives, capers, and anchovies are naturally salty, taste before adding any extra seasoning to avoid over-salting, cook the pasta al dente for the best texture, and let canned or jarred ingredients come to room temperature so they combine easily in the pan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Spaghetti Puttanesca without anchovies?
Yes, you can leave out anchovies if you prefer a vegetarian version. While anchovies add a distinctive umami flavour to the dish, the combination of garlic, olives, capers, and tinned tomatoes still provides a rich and savoury taste.
What type of olives are best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using pitted Kalamata olives for their robust flavour and meaty texture. However, you can substitute with other varieties such as green olives if desired.
Is this dish suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Absolutely! With a prep time of 5 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this Spaghetti Puttanesca recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, while the recipe uses San Remo No. 5 Spaghetti, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
