Pasta Puttanesca Without Anchovies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta Puttanesca Without Anchovies is the perfect balance of savory, briny, and slightly spicy. The rich tomato sauce, combined with olives, capers, garlic, and red pepper flakes, creates a deeply flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. By skipping the anchovies but still using their flavor-building alternatives, this dish remains full of umami, making it a great option for vegetarians or anyone who wants to avoid anchovies. It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for those who love bold Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped

• 2 tbsp capers, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp dried basil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté garlic and spices: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

3. Prepare the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet, followed by the olives, capers, white wine, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly reduce.

4. Toss with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Season: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.

6. Serve: Divide the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 25 minutes

• Active time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan cheese to make this dish fully vegan.

• More Veggies: Add roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers to the sauce for added texture and nutrition.

• Protein: For added protein, top the pasta with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Non-Spicy: If you prefer a milder dish, skip the red pepper flakes or use a small amount for just a hint of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Pasta Puttanesca can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use green olives instead of Kalamata olives?

Yes, you can use green olives instead of Kalamata olives. Both work well in this dish, but Kalamata olives have a slightly different flavor profile that’s more intense and tangy.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute vegetable broth or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version of the sauce. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

How do I make the sauce richer without anchovies?

In place of anchovies, capers and olives provide the briny, savory flavors that are characteristic of Pasta Puttanesca. Adding a bit of white wine or vegetable broth also helps deepen the sauce’s richness.

Can I freeze this dish?

Pasta Puttanesca is best served fresh, but you can freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 2-3 months. Reheat the sauce on the stove and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables to the sauce, like spinach, mushrooms, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Pasta Puttanesca Without Anchovies is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together tangy olives, capers, and a rich tomato sauce without relying on anchovies for flavor. It’s the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner that is full of bold Mediterranean flavors, satisfying, and naturally gluten-free. Whether you’re avoiding anchovies, following a vegetarian diet, or just craving something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your pasta repertoire.