penne all puttanesca vegetarian recipe

Vegetarian Penne alla Puttanesca

You probably already have everything you need for this hearty Sicilian pasta in your pantry. Anchovies are a traditional component, but even this vegetarian version has the trademark briny flavor of the sea, thanks to the bold capers and olives. Serves four.

2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
2 large cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest (from half a medium orange)
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
One 28-oz. can whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped, juice reserved
1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, rinsed and quartered
2 Tbs. capers, rinsed
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
8 oz. whole-grain penne pasta
1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano
1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the onion, orange zest, oregano, and pepper flakes and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the wine and simmer until it has almost evaporated, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and their juice, olives, and capers. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente. Drain well.

Pour the pasta into the skillet and toss with the sauce. Divide the pasta among 4 bowls and sprinkle with cheese and parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a mixed green salad and Bruschetta Topped with Warm Goat Cheese.

nutrition information (per serving):
Calories (kcal): 500; Fat (g): 18; Fat Calories (kcal): 160; Saturated Fat (g): 4; Protein (g): 15; Monounsaturated Fat (g): 10; Carbohydrates (g): 68; Polyunsaturated Fat (g): 2; Sodium (mg): 1300; Cholesterol (mg): 10; Fiber (g): 9;
photo: Scott Phillips
From Fine Cooking 103 , pp. 67
December 30, 2009


user reviews

Star Star Star Star Star Quick, easy, delicious. Had everything on hand and nothing planned for dinner - this was perfect. I used a couple of fresh tomatoes and red wine.
Star Star Star Star Star A tasty meal but a little too much on the briney side for my taste. Read my entire review at: http://themomchef.blogspot.com/2010/02/penne-alla-puttanesca-from-fine-cooking.html
Star Star Star Star Star Wow!!! This is such a healthy and tasty recipe. I wasn't sure about the orange zest. My husband loved it and so did I. Really great!
Star Star Star Star Star Fantastic recipe. Very quick and easy. The orange zest adds a nice yet subtle flavour to this dish. Was a hit with my husband and definitely one I will add to my favourites.

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