Vegan Puttanesca Pasta Recipe
Description
Vegan Puttanesca is a plant-based twist on the classic Italian dish, bursting with bold flavors from olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes. This umami-packed pasta dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. It offers a balance of acidity, saltiness, and richness, all without any animal products.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for extra texture)
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
2 tbsp capers, drained
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for extra umami)
For the Pasta:
12 oz spaghetti or linguine (use whole wheat or gluten-free if desired)
1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
For Garnish:
Fresh basil leaves
Extra parsley
Vegan parmesan (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in olives and capers. Cook for another minute to release their flavors.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. Stir well.
Add oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
Stir in nutritional yeast (if using) and fresh parsley.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Let it cook for 1-2 more minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 4: Serve
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil, parsley, and optional vegan parmesan.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~400 kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: ~800mg (varies with salt preference)
Iron: ~15% of Daily Value
Time Required
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Common Questions & Answers
1. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta like brown rice or lentil-based pasta.
2. What can I substitute for capers?
If you don’t have capers, try chopped green olives or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for acidity.
3. How do I make it oil-free?
Sauté the garlic in vegetable broth instead of oil.
4. Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.
5. Can I add more protein?
For extra protein, stir
in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or vegan sausage.