Shrimp Pasta Puttanesca Recipe
Ingredients:
• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 anchovy fillets, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata or black olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 12 oz (340g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Puttanesca Sauce
1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic, chopped anchovies, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the anchovies have melted into the oil.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, and capers. Let the sauce simmer for about 8-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
1. Add the drained pasta and cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
1. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Be cautious with salt since anchovies, olives, and capers are naturally salty.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
1. Serve the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan on the side if you like. Enjoy this seafood twist on classic puttanesca!