This dish is a coastal twist on the classic spaghetti alla puttanesca, which traditionally features anchovies as the umami base. Here, shrimp takes center stage, adding a tender sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the bold, tangy sauce. The medley of Kalamata olives, capers, garlic, and crushed red pepper delivers a layered complexity that’s both rustic and sophisticated. Ideal for a weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, Shrimp Puttanesca delivers big flavors with minimal fuss.
Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Preparation
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add crushed tomatoes, olives, capers, and oregano. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 3
Add shrimp to the sauce and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once, until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, topped with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.