Fish Puttanesca Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fish Puttanesca is a bold and savory dish that combines tender white fish fillets with the rich, briny flavors of a traditional puttanesca sauce. Featuring ingredients like olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes, this quick and hearty recipe offers a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and umami notes. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal ideal for weeknights or special dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut)olive oilgarlicanchovy fillets (optional)crushed red pepper flakescanned diced tomatoeskalamata or black olivescapersfresh parsleyfresh basilsalt and black pepper

directions

Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic, anchovy fillets (if using), and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant and anchovies dissolve.

Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

Add the olives and capers. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Nestle the seasoned fish fillets into the sauce. Cover and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use salmon or snapper for a richer flavor.

Add chopped artichoke hearts or spinach for extra vegetables.

Serve over pasta, rice, or polenta for a heartier meal.

Swap fresh tomatoes for canned if in season.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking the fish.Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fish may change.

FAQs

What type of fish works best?

Mild white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia work best.

Do I have to use anchovies?

No, but they add depth and umami. You can skip them or use anchovy paste.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Absolutely, make the sauce a day in advance and reheat before adding the fish.

What should I serve it with?

Crusty bread, pasta, or a side of sautéed greens complement it well.

How do I know when the fish is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.

Can I use green olives?

Yes, though kalamata adds a richer briny flavor.

Can I add wine?

A splash of white wine can enhance the sauce’s depth.

Conclusion

Fish Puttanesca is a satisfying, flavorful dish that brings Mediterranean flair to your table with minimal effort. With its robust sauce and tender fish, it’s an easy way to impress guests or enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal any night of the week.

Print