Name: Vegan Pasta Puttanesca Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 150 g dry pasta; 25 g cherry tomatoes; ⅕ red onion; 20 olives (black or kalamata); 1 tbsp capers; 2 cloves garlic; ¼ tsp chilli flakes; 150 ml vegetable stock

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What is vegan pasta puttanesca?

If you’re a lover of salty dishes then this vegan Pasta Puttanesca is definitely for you. With black olives and briny capers in a fresh tomato sauce this dish certainly packs a punch. Typically, pasta puttanesca also includes anchovies however I’ll be showing you a vegan pasta puttanesca recipe. The inspiration came from a book that I’ve just finished reading with my son called A series of Unfortunate Events : The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket in which the Baudelaire orphans are forced to cook dinner for the dreadful Count Olaf in a very empty and ingredient sparse kitchen. Pasta Puttanesca was the dish they came up with with the few ingredients and utensils they could find. As much as I recommend trying this dish, I recommend reading these books even more! P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow me on socials so that you never miss any of my healthy recipes for weight loss.

For this dish I used a gluten free mung bean and edamame fettuccine which doesn’t expand much whilst cooking and the ingredient weight reflects that. If you’re using a traditional dry pasta, adjust the weights accordingly, a serving of dry pasta is 75g. This dish serves 2. This dish will keep for around 4 days in a fridge.

Is pasta puttanesca healthy?

Packed with vibrant vegetables, this pasta dish boasts a variety of nutrients. Cherry tomatoes contribute antioxidants, while red onion provides fibre and flavour. Olives and capers bring healthy fats and a burst of savoury taste, enhancing the overall culinary experience. Additionally, the use of vegetable stock instead of heavy cream keeps the sauce light and nutritious. This recipe offers a well-rounded and wholesome option for a satisfying and health-conscious meal.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This vegan pasta puttanesca is:

Vegan
Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Low Fat
Syn Free
Ultra Processed Food Free

Ultra processed food free recipes are recipes that use ingredients where no additives have been used. This will include ingredients that can be made at home to be UPF free such as stock cubes, sauces and seasonings.

Step 1: Sauté onions and garlic

Firstly, cut up your olives, tomatoes, onion and crush your garlic. Sauté Your onions for 5 minutes before adding the garlic or a further 2. I should mention that when I ‘sauté’ I don’t use any oil as my diet is oil free so technically I sweat onions, but this is down to personal preference and I wanted to clear up any confusion!

Step 2: Create your pasta puttanesca

Add the olives, capers, tomatoes and pinch of chilli flakes and stir well. Add the stock and simmer for 20 minutes or until a thick sauce has formed. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to brand suggestions. Most gluten free pastas only take around 5 minutes however wheat pasta will take longer. Mix your pasta into your sauce and top with parsley or rocket to garnish.

Pasta Puttanesca variations:

Mediterranean Twist: Enhance the dish with the addition of crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a Mediterranean flavor explosion.
Protein Boost: Integrate grilled chicken strips or chickpeas into the mix to elevate the protein content and make it a heartier meal.
Green Goddess Upgrade: Infuse a burst of freshness by incorporating spinach or arugula into the sauce, adding vibrant green hues and an extra layer of nutrients.
Seafood Delight: For a seafood twist, toss in some cooked shrimp or canned tuna, bringing a delightful oceanic flair to the pasta.
Herb Fusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to tailor the flavor profile to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option?

A: Absolutely! Substituting whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients to the dish without compromising on taste.

Q: Are there alternatives to vegetable stock for the sauce?

A: Yes, you can use chicken or mushroom stock as alternatives based on your flavour preference. Alternatively, water with a dash of lemon juice can work as a simple yet effective substitution.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Certainly! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the pre-made sauce for a quick and convenient meal.

Q: How can I reduce the spice level if I’m sensitive to heat?

A: This isn’t a particularly spicy dish but you can simply reduce the amount of chili flakes in the sauce or omit them altogether. Adjust according to your personal taste preferences.

Q: What can I substitute for capers if I don’t have them on hand?

A: If capers are unavailable, chopped green olives can serve as a suitable substitute, providing a similar briny and tangy flavor to the dish.

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