Vegan Spaghetti Puttanesca | Bold Southern Italian Classic

Spaghetti Puttanesca is an explosion of southern Italian flavors — briny olives, tangy capers, sweet tomatoes, and a kick of chili. This version is 100% vegan yet full of authentic taste!

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About This Dish

Born in Naples, Puttanesca is bold and unapologetically flavorful. Traditionally made with anchovies, this vegan version skips them without losing authenticity — olives, capers, and a hint of chili make it as punchy and satisfying as the original.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Spaghetti:	220 g (≈ 8 oz)
Cherry Tomatoes:	200 g (≈ 1 ½ cups)
Tomato Paste:	1 tsp
Black Olives:	8–10, pitted and halved
Capers:	1 tbsp
Garlic:	1 clove, minced
Chili Flakes:	A pinch
Olive Oil:	3 tbsp
Salt & Pepper:	To taste
Fresh Parsley:	For garnish

How to Make It

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins

Step 1: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve some cooking water before draining.
Step 2: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic with chili flakes for 1 minute.
Step 3: Add tomato paste, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of pasta water. Cook until tomatoes soften (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Stir in olives and capers. Simmer for 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
Step 5: Add the cooked spaghetti, tossing with the sauce. Add more pasta water if needed for a glossy finish.
Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tucci’s Tips

Always rinse salted capers well to avoid overpowering the dish.

Reserve pasta water — it’s the secret to a silky sauce.

For extra depth, add a few sun-dried tomatoes finely chopped.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use high-quality gluten-free spaghetti.
Spicy Lovers: Double the chili flakes for a fiery kick.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini ribbons or sautéed eggplant for more texture.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: Puttanesca originated in Naples in the mid-20th century as a quick, bold dish using pantry staples like olives, capers, and tomatoes.

Fun Fact: Its name comes from “puttana,” meaning “lady of the night” — legend says it was created for a fast, satisfying meal between clients!

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Storage & Thank You

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add a splash of water when reheating to bring back the silky sauce.

Can it be frozen? No — this dish is best enjoyed fresh.

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