OAA Plant-Based Recipe of the Month: Pasta Puttanesca
Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that aligns with your compassionate lifestyle? This month, we’re featuring a classic Italian dish with a plant-based twist: Pasta Puttanesca!
Traditionally made with anchovies, this version skips the fish but keeps all the bold, briny flavors you love. Salty olives, capers, garlic, and crushed tomatoes come together in a savory sauce that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Whether you're new to plant-based eating or a seasoned vegan looking for new inspiration, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing your non-vegan friends with how flavorful plant-based cooking can be.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Fast & easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less
Packed with flavor: Bold, savory, and a little spicy
Whole food ingredients: No fake meat or cheese — just real, nourishing food
Budget-friendly: Pantry staples, minimal fuss
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or linguine work great)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
2 tablespoons capers, drained
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add olives and capers. Stir and cook for another minute.
Pour in crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
A Note on Compassionate Eating
At OAA, we believe food can be both delicious and kind. Choosing plant-based meals like this one helps reduce the demand for factory-farmed animal products and supports a more compassionate food system. Every small choice adds up — and yes, that includes your Tuesday night pasta.
Let us know if you try this recipe by tagging us on social media or leaving a comment below. Happy cooking!
