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Homemade 15-Minute Tuna Puttanesca (Anchovy-Free) recipe photo

15-Minute Tuna Puttanesca (Anchovy-Free)

This 15-Minute Tuna Puttanesca is SO EASY! A vibrant, anchovy-free pasta packed with olives, capers, chickpeas, and tuna for a quick Mediterranean feast.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup black olives pitted and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed
  • 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in olive oil drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Garlic press or knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the drained chickpeas, black olives, and capers. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Gently fold in the drained tuna, breaking it into chunks but keeping some texture. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the robust flavors of this quick, satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • Freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit tuna and increase chickpeas or add sautéed mushrooms.