Name: One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti (uncooked); 9 ounces cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered, depending on the size); 1/8 cup olives (pitted and sliced); 2 tablespoons capers (rinsed in water); 3 anchovy fillets; 1 clove garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons parsley (fresh, minced); 2 1/4 cups water; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper (freshly-cracked)

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The One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca has a way of making weeknight dinners feel special. I remember the first time I tasted it; the tangy flavors blended together so perfectly, and it transported me to a cozy Italian kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, sparking laughter and conversation over a shared meal. The best part? It requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze, which is a win in my book! There’s something magical about cooking everything together, letting the flavors meld as they simmer. The aroma of the garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, promising a delightful feast. With every bite, you get a taste of vibrant cherry tomatoes, salty olives, and the richness of anchovies, all nestled within the comforting embrace of pasta. I love serving this dish for family gatherings or when friends come over – it’s sure to impress and satisfy.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Vegan

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan

What Makes This One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca Special

It’s Quick and Easy

One of the things I love about the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca is how quickly it comes together. In just under fifteen minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.

Minimal Cleanup

Cooking everything in one pot means less time scrubbing dishes afterwards. With only a single saucepan to clean, you can enjoy your meal without the dread of a mountain of dishes looming over you.

Bold Flavors

The combination of ingredients in this dish creates a symphony of flavors. The anchovies add depth, while the cherry tomatoes bring brightness, and the olives add a delightful brininess. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe allows for easy modifications based on what you have on hand. Want to throw in some fresh basil or spinach? Go for it! The One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca is adaptable, and you can make it your own.

Perfect for Sharing

There’s something wonderful about sharing a big pot of pasta with loved ones. It encourages conversation and laughter, creating memories that linger long after the meal is over. Plus, it’s a dish that appeals to many tastes, making it an easy choice for gatherings.

What to Gather for One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca

When it comes to the ingredients for the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca, simplicity is key. Fresh, hearty components come together for a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the richness of the sauce, while the pasta absorbs all those delightful notes. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece.

8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti (uncooked) – A healthy base that holds up well, soaking in all the flavors.
9 ounces cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered, depending on the size) – They add sweetness and color to the dish.
1/8 cup olives (pitted and sliced) – Providing a salty punch that enhances the overall taste.
2 tablespoons capers (rinsed in water) – Their briny burst complements the other ingredients beautifully.
3 anchovy fillets – These bring depth and umami without overpowering the dish.
1 garlic clove (minced) – The aromatic staple that enhances flavor.
2 tablespoons parsley (fresh, minced) – A fresh herb that adds brightness.
2 1/4 cups water – Essential for cooking the pasta and creating your sauce.
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps to sauté the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Necessary for enhancing the flavors.
1/8 teaspoon pepper (freshly-cracked) – For a touch of warmth and spice.

Making One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca

Cooking the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca is an effortless yet rewarding experience. This method is straightforward, and it allows the ingredients to shine through. Let’s take a look at how to bring this dish to life step by step.

Gather your ingredients and get a large saucepan ready. Add the spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, anchovies, garlic, parsley, water, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the pot. It should look colorful and vibrant as you layer everything.
Make sure the spaghetti is submerged in the water. This is crucial for even cooking. Cover the pot with a lid to retain heat and moisture.
Set the heat to medium and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
After about 13 minutes, check the spaghetti for doneness. It should be al dente, tender but still firm to the bite. Also, the sauce should be thickened and nearly reduced. It’s delightful to see the sauce enveloping the spaghetti.
If necessary, you can cook it for an additional minute or two, but be careful not to let it overcook. I like to serve it immediately for the best texture.
Once ready, remove the pot from the heat. Dish out the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca into bowls, and garnish with additional parsley if desired. The final presentation will be vibrant and inviting.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the spaghetti in the same pot as the sauce allows it to absorb all the flavors, making each bite taste divine.
Make sure to stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more water if you prefer a slightly looser texture.
Letting the spaghetti sit for too long can result in it becoming overcooked and mushy, so serve it right away for the best results.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to personalize your One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca! Here are some ideas to try:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Just be mindful that the texture of the pasta may change slightly once thawed.
Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of cheese can also enhance the flavor profile.
Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
Spice it Up: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during cooking.
Diet-Friendly: This dish can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Perfect Matches for One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca

When serving the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca, consider the following ideas:

Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is ideal for soaking up the remaining sauce.
Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette to brighten the meal.
Summer Dinners: This dish is perfect for summer evenings, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Family Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for family dinners or potlucks.
Comfort Food: The heartiness of the pasta makes it a satisfying choice for cozy nights in.
Leftover Makeover: If you have leftovers, try transforming them into a baked dish by adding cheese and baking until golden.

FAQ

While the One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients earlier in the day for a quick assembly when it’s time to cook. However, I recommend cooking it just before serving, as the pasta can become overly soft if left in the sauce for too long.

You can customize your One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca with various ingredients! Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to experiment with what you have on hand!

Yes! The One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca can be a healthy choice, especially when made with whole-wheat pasta and plenty of fresh vegetables. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors without being overly heavy. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as with any dish, and enjoy the health benefits of the ingredients used.

To store leftovers of your One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave. Just remember that the pasta may absorb more sauce while stored, so it might be a little thicker when reheated.

Conclusion

The One Pot Spaghetti Puttanesca is a delightful blend of flavors that brings a taste of Italy to your home. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. You won’t be disappointed with the burst of flavors and the joy of sharing it with your loved ones.