Fish Puttanesca Recipe (30-Minutes)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fish Puttanesca is a quick and bold Mediterranean dish that brings together tender white fish with a zesty, savory tomato sauce made with olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan meal is perfect for weeknights when you want something healthy yet bursting with flavor.

ingredients

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

white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or tilapia)olive oilgarlicanchovy filletscherry tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoeskalamata olivescapersred pepper flakesfresh parsleyblack pepper and salt (to taste)lemon juice

directions

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

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the garlic and anchovy fillets, cooking until the garlic is golden and the anchovies have melted into the oil.

Stir in the tomatoes, olives, capers, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Gently nestle the fish fillets into the sauce. Cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve hot, optionally over rice, couscous, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Use salmon or swordfish for a richer version.

Add diced onions and bell peppers for extra texture.

Include a splash of white wine in the sauce for added depth.

Serve over pasta for a heartier meal.

Garnish with grated parmesan for a fusion twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.Fish may dry out if overcooked during reheating, so monitor closely.

FAQs

What type of fish works best for puttanesca?

Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia hold up well in the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

Do I have to use anchovies?

Anchovies add depth, but you can omit them or use a little anchovy paste for a milder taste.

Is Fish Puttanesca spicy?

It can be mildly spicy depending on the amount of red pepper flakes used.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, cherry tomatoes or chopped fresh tomatoes work great, though canned tomatoes offer a saucier base.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as it’s not served over gluten-containing sides.

Can I freeze Fish Puttanesca?

It’s not ideal due to the delicate texture of the fish, but the sauce alone freezes well.

What should I serve with it?

Crusty bread, rice, polenta, or pasta are all excellent options.

Can I add vegetables?

Zucchini, spinach, or artichokes make great additions.

How do I know when the fish is done?

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

Conclusion

Fish Puttanesca is a fast, flavorful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its rich tomato base, briny accents, and tender fish, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights without sacrificing taste.

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