Fish Puttanesca Recipe
Fish Puttanesca is a bold and flavorful Italian dish that pairs tender, flaky fish with a rich, briny tomato sauce made from olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies.This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, taking just 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 fish fillets cod, halibut, snapper, or salmon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 4 anchovy fillets finely chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives sliced
- 2 tbsp capers drained
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional ingredients:
- Lemon zest for brightness or a splash of white wine for depth.
Instructions
Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
Make the Puttanesca Sauce
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic and anchovies (if using) over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, olives, capers, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine the Fish and Sauce
- Gently place the seared fish fillets into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the fish.
- Cover and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley and optional lemon zest over the dish before serving. Enjoy it hot with crusty bread, pasta, or steamed vegetables.