How to Make Pasta Puttanesca

Pasta Puttanesca is a classic Italian dish known for its bold flavors, quick prep, and the clever use of pantry ingredients like olives, capers, anchovy paste, and canned tomatoes. This version adds a nutritious twist with whole-wheat pasta and fresh greens, making it a balanced, satisfying meal you can have on the table in under 30 minutes.

Here’s how to make this vibrant, savory pasta at home.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole-wheat thin spaghetti, vermicelli, or angel hair

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/3 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

• 1/4 cup pitted chopped Spanish or Greek olives

• 2 tablespoons capers

• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)

• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, preferably no salt added

• 3/4 cup chopped fresh arugula

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add the aromatics: Stir in parsley, olives, capers, anchovy paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Simmer with tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Wilt the greens: Stir in the chopped arugula and cook for 1 minute more, just until the greens are wilted.

6. Toss and serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Top with grated Parmesan before serving.

Why You'll Love It

• Quick and easy: Done in under 30 minutes.

• Flavor-packed: Salty, spicy, and just the right amount of umami.

• Nutritious: Whole-wheat pasta adds fiber, arugula brings antioxidants, and olives offer heart-healthy fats.

Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

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