Pasta puttanesca recipe authentic

Here’s an authentic Pasta Puttanesca recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6-8 anchovy fillets, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 400g (14 oz) canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
• 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, anchovies, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies start to dissolve.
3. Add tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
4. Add olives and capers: Stir in the sliced olives and drained capers. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. Optionally, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
7. Enjoy: Serve the Pasta Puttanesca hot and enjoy your authentic Italian meal!

This classic recipe is known for its bold and flavorful combination of ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying dish. Adjust the spice level and seasoning according to your taste preferences. Buon appetito!

FAQs

• What does pasta puttanesca mean in Italian?

  • “Puttanesca” translates to “in the style of a prostitute” in Italian. The origins of the name are somewhat controversial, with various legends attributing it to the dish’s association with the world’s oldest profession. Despite the name, the dish itself is celebrated for its bold and flavorful combination of ingredients.

• What is puttanesca sauce made of?

  • Puttanesca sauce is made with a base of tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, but its distinctive flavor comes from the addition of anchovies, capers, and black olives. These ingredients combine to create a rich, savory, and slightly pungent sauce that is characteristic of authentic Pasta Puttanesca.

• What pasta does Puttanesca go with?

  • Pasta Puttanesca pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes, but it is most commonly served with spaghetti. The robust and chunky nature of the sauce clings effectively to long, thin strands of spaghetti, allowing for a perfect balance of flavors in each bite. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or bucatini based on personal preference.

• What can I use instead of anchovies in Puttanesca?

  • If you prefer to omit anchovies or are looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can replace them with capers to maintain a similar briny flavor profile. Alternatively, you might use kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a splash of soy sauce to add depth and umami to the sauce. Adjust quantities according to taste preferences, keeping in mind that anchovies contribute a unique savory element to the traditional Puttanesca flavor.