Skip to Content

Whatever the theory about the origins of Pasta Puttanesca, and how the aroma conjured from the brothels of Naples lured in Giovannis, we at Appetito lust in the here and now for this dish because it's pantry-accessible with simple ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Pasta Puttanesca

Pasta Puttanesca

Recipe by andrewappetito
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb of a long pasta such as spaghetti or fettuccine

  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 4 anchovy filets

  • 4 cloves of garlic (chopped)

  • 3/4 cup pitted, cured olives (rough chopped)

  • 2 tbsp capers

  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)

  • 1 28-oz can of imported, whole tomatoes (crushed by hand)

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

  • salt to taste

Directions

  • Put a large pot of water on to boil.
  • Bring 3 tbsp of olive oil to a shimmer in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  • Add the garlic and anchovy, adjusting heat or even temporarily removing from heat to keep the garlic from burning. Saute until the garlic is lightly browned and the anchovies break apart.
  • Raise heat, add the tomatoes, season with salt, bring to a quick boil and then let simmer for ten minutes (stirring on occasion).
  • Add the olives, capers, red pepper flakes, and half the basil. Keep simmering until the sauce thickens (10–15 minutes).
  • Salt the boiling water and add the pasta. Cook till a minute short of al dente. Drain and quickly add to the saute pan with the sauce (or combine in a large serving bowl). Allow the noodles to finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Remove to a serving bowl. Swirl in the remaining olive oil. Top with the remaining basil.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @appetitomagazine on Instagram and hashtag it with #italianfoodanddrink

Like this recipe?

Follow @Appetitomagazine on Pinterest

Follow us on Facebook!

Follow us on Facebook

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More Stories

Appetito’s Andrew Cotto on Little Italy and “Mapgate” in NYC

Appetito's EIC appeared on the "Little Italy" podcast to discuss issues surrounding the recent "Mapgate" controversy in New York City.

July 21, 2026

Danielle Callegari on A Bite-Sized History of Italy and Italian Food History

The Dartmouth professor discusses why cuisine became Italy's strongest cultural identity, from ancient Rome to modern Italian-American cooking.

July 21, 2026

5 Italian Seaside Destinations Beyond the Amalfi Coast

From hidden islands to charming beach towns, these five destinations prove there's so much more to Italy's coastline than the Amalfi Coast.

Positive Influencer: Margherita Gismondi of Margherita Blogs

Appetito interviews influencer Margherita Gismondi about her approach to educating audiences about Italian culture and lifestyle.

July 20, 2026

Sunday Shop: L.L.Bean, Haystacks, Fresh Salt

Morgan Hines seeks out the best in not only food and drink but style, housewares, and more. Welcome to Appetito’s Sunday Shop!

July 19, 2026

This Week in Italian Food News: Garofalo, the New York Jets and De Nigris Make Headlines

Three Italian brands are finding fresh ways to connect with American consumers.

July 17, 2026