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Savory Italian Pasta alla Puttanesca

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Equipment

  • Equipment Needed: Pot, skillet, colander, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta: 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 3 cloves minced
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: 1 teaspoon adjust to taste
  • Canned Tomatoes: 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • Kalamata Olives: ½ cup pitted and roughly chopped
  • Capers: 2 tablespoons rinsed
  • Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Variations
  • Seafood Addition: Add shrimp or anchovies for a seafood twist.
  • Vegetarian Option: Leave out the anchovies and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn.
  • Tips and Substitutions
  • Dietary Needs: For a lower-carb option spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash can be used instead of traditional pasta.
  • Faster Cooking: Use pre-minced garlic or jarred capers to save time.
  • Freshness: While canned tomatoes are essential using fresh tomatoes can elevate the flavor. Aim for about 1 pound of fresh tomatoes, diced.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
  • Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  • Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
  • Step 2: Make the Sauce
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the chopped olives and capers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Step 3: Combine
  • Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a saucier consistency.
  • Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  • Step 4: Serve
  • Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
  • Enjoy your Pasta alla Puttanesca.