🍝 Vegan Puttanesca Pasta – Bold, Briny & Irresistible

This Vegan Puttanesca Pasta is bursting with Mediterranean flavor—salty capers, briny olives, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together in a rich tomato sauce for the ultimate comfort dish. With a hint of heat from red chili flakes and a touch of balsamic for balance, this pasta is quick, wholesome, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Puttanesca

• Bold & Savory – Briny olives and capers bring classic Italian flavor.

• Vegan & Dairy-Free – 100% plant-based with all the flavor of the traditional dish.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Protein-Packed – Made with red lentil pasta for extra plant-based protein and fiber.

🌱 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼–½ teaspoon red chili flakes

• 4 tablespoons jarred capers, drained

• 5 ounces pitted kalamata olives, drained and sliced

• 14 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

• 15 ounces passata (or canned tomato sauce)

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 8 ounces pasta (Barilla red lentil or your choice)

• 2 cups hot water

• 1 sheet nori (optional), chopped

• ½ cup spinach, chopped

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Base

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red chili flakes, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add Briny Flavors

Add capers, olives, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3 minutes to soften the tomatoes and release flavor.

3. Build the Sauce

Stir in passata (or tomato sauce), balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and 2 cups hot water. Bring to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta directly into the sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water as needed to maintain saucy consistency.

5. Finish & Serve

Once pasta is cooked, stir in chopped spinach and nori (if using). Top with vegan parmesan and serve hot.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh basil or extra chili flakes for spice.

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

• Serve alongside a slice of garlic bread for a hearty meal.

• Add a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of nutritional yeast before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

• Use red lentil or chickpea pasta for added protein and fiber.

• Nori adds a subtle umami flavor reminiscent of anchovies—great for depth.

• Make extra sauce—it freezes beautifully for quick future meals.