Authentic Italian Puttanesca Sauce

Recipe

Authentic Italian Puttanesca Sauce

Mediterranean Delight: Savory Puttanesca Sauce

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this authentic recipe for Puttanesca sauce. Bursting with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean, this sauce is a perfect blend of tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, creating a robust and tangy flavor profile.

Jan Dec

10 minutes

20 minutes

30 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Mediterranean diet, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free

Fish (anchovies)

Vegan, Paleo, Low-carb, Nut-free, Soy-free

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
  • Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
  • Carbohydrates: 15g (Sugars: 8g)
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Salt: 2g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2.
    Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and chili flakes. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
  3. 3.
    Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
  4. 4.
    Add the sliced black olives, capers, and chopped anchovy fillets. Stir to combine.
  5. 5.
    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. 6.
    Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. 7.
    Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
  8. 8.
    Serve the puttanesca sauce over your favorite pasta or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Anchovy fillets — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the number of anchovy fillets or omit them altogether. However, they add a unique umami taste to the sauce.
  • Capers — Rinse the capers before using them to remove excess saltiness.
  • Crushed tomatoes — Opt for high-quality canned crushed tomatoes or use fresh tomatoes that have been peeled and crushed.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes.
  • If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the ingredients together after simmering.
  • Serve the puttanesca sauce with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of olives to find your favorite combination.
  • Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the puttanesca sauce generously over al dente pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Presentation advice

Present the pasta with puttanesca sauce in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant red sauce to take center stage. Add a sprig of fresh parsley on top for an elegant touch.