Spaghetti alla Puttanesca: A Zesty and Flavorful Italian Pasta Delight
Spaghetti alla Puttanesca is a traditional Italian pasta dish known for its bold and tangy flavors. With a base of tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, it’s a quick and easy recipe that brings the essence of southern Italy to your table.
### Ingredients:
– 400g spaghetti
– 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 6 anchovy fillets, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Spaghetti:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until it begins to turn golden, about 2 minutes.
– Add the chopped anchovies and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the anchovies dissolve into the oil.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:**
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, olives, and capers. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
– Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
5. **Serve:**
– Transfer the spaghetti to serving plates. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
– Serve immediately, accompanied by grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy this Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, and savor each bite of its robust and mouth-watering flavors reminiscent of the Italian coastline!