High Protein Pasta Puttanesca

This quick and easy high-protein pasta puttanesca dish evokes the warmth and passion of Sicily without the airfare and crowds. Pair it with a fresh salad and crusty bread for an incredible, memorable meal.

Our spaghetti alla puttanesca is budget-friendly, easily adaptable, and bursting with the wonderful flavors of Italy.

What is Pasta Puttanesca?

Is a classic Italian pasta dish traditionally made with anchovy fillets for umami flavor and other traditional puttanesca ingredients like capers, olives, fresh garlic, and tomatoes. The origin of this dish is controversial. We recreate that delicious umami taste by caramelizing tomato paste and adding a generous handful of sun-dried tomatoes in garlic oil to form the base of our sauce.

Ingredients for Pasta Puttanesca

• Spaghetti Noodles. We like to use chickpea pasta noodles which are high in protein and nutritional value.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
• Tomato Paste. Intensely flavorful, tomato paste forms the base for puttanesca sauce. Cooked until it darkens, it takes on even more flavor and will improve your dish.
• Garlic Cloves.
• Cocktail Tomatoes. These little tomatoes are larger than grape or cherry tomatoes, but still small and sweet.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil.
• Capers.
• Kalamata Olives. You can use any variety of olives you want, make sure they are pitted or pit them yourself.
• Cured Black Olives.
• Fresh Basil Leaves. Fresh herbs make a huge difference in a dish like this.
• Red Pepper Flakes. For heat, if desired. You can also use crushed red peppers or ancho chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Salt to taste. This is optional because the olives and capers add significant salt to the recipe.

How to Make Pasta Puttanesca

First, boil your pasta, cook to al dente following the package instructions, drain, toss in olive oil, and set it aside. Next, heat some olive oil in a large skillet. Add the tomato paste and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until its red color darkens slightly. This will form the base of flavor for the puttanesca sauce.

Add the garlic to your pan, mix it with the tomato paste, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Add ¼ cup water and stir well. Then add the cocktail tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, capers, olives, basil, red pepper flakes, and salt. Simmer for about two minutes, until heated through. Add the cooked pasta, toss well, and cook for another minute. Serve immediately because this dish is best hot and fresh.

What to Serve with Pasta Puttanesca

Our High-protein pasta puttanesca is delicious when served with a Kale Caesar Salad with Smokey Mushrooms or Roasted Vegetable Greek Salad (with or without the quinoa), and a fresh loaf of garlic bread to sop up that wonderful sauce. For dessert, whip up our super easy Vegan Tiramisu. Why not light a few candles and open a bottle of Chianti to complete your Sicilian adventure?

Tips for Amazing Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca

• Use a large pot of water to boil pasta. This ensures that all of the pasta is surrounded by water and cooks evenly without sticking.
• Garnish your pasta with parmesan cheese or Romano cheese for extra flavor.
• Adding a spoonful of reserved pasta water to your sauce is a traditional way to add starch and thickening if needed.
• Do not use a metal spoon when stirring a tomato-based dish, because the metal will react with the acid and impart a taste to your sauce. Instead, use classic wooden spoons.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftovers of Pasta Puttanesca?

While the leftovers are not nearly as good they can be saved and dressed up with alfredo sauce to improve the reheated results. Keep whatever is left in the fridge in an airtight container.

What is the difference between puttanesca sauce and arrabbiata sauce?

Arrabiata sauce is more spicy and fiery, while puttanesca has the deep umami flavor of a savory dish with a hint of spice.

What kind of pasta do you use with puttanesca sauce?

It is usually served with vermicelli or spaghetti but you can use a variety of pasta shapes such as penne or farfalle if that is your preference.

More Great Pasta Recipes to Try

• High Protein Creamed Spinach Pasta Bake
• Mushroom and Chickpea One Pot Pasta
• Pea and Artichoke Pasta
• High Protein Spring Vegetable Pasta
• 20 Minute High Protein Lemon Pasta

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