Pasta Puttanesca

Pasta Puttanesca, also known as "whore's pasta", is an Italian dish originating in Naples, Italy. Pasta Puttanesca is a hardy pasta meal consisting of any type of pasta noodle, tomato-based sauce, anchovies, capers, black olives, garlic, parsley, ground pepper and olive oil.

Fast Facts

1. Pasta Puttanesca originated in Naples, Italy
2. Spaghetti is traditionally used
3. Makes a great Vegetarian dish
4. Add meat for a more protein-rich meal

Quick and Easy Recipe

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves of fresh garlic (finely diced)
• 4 small anchovies (chopped) (optional)
• 1 small red chili (remove seeds and chop)
• 2 teaspoons capers
• 8 black olives (quartered) (if you like olives add as many as you want)
• 14 oz canned tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley (finely diced)
• 7 ounces spaghetti noodles or pasta of choice

Directions

1. In a large frying pan, heat oil over medium high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Add garlic and anchovies, stirring to break up the anchovies to release the flavor.
4. Add all remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
6. While sauce is simmering, cook pasta.
7. Ladle sauce over pasta.
8. Top with parsley, olive oil and/or grated Parmesan cheese and serve with French or sourdough bread.

Variations and Options

To add more protein to this dish, try adding cooked meats, fish, chicken or a mixture of seafood.

History Trivia

"Puttanesca" literally means "whore" in Italian. It is said that the dish got its name because it is quickly prepared and was commonly made by "women of the night" in between clients.¹ The origin of the name is still debated.

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