This Easy Savory Fish Puttanesca is a tasty dish with fish, olives, and tomatoes, all infused with bold flavors. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
The best part? You get a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I love serving it over pasta or rice for a complete meal that looks fancy but is super simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish: Cod, halibut, or sea bass work well as they’re firm and flaky. If you’re looking for alternatives, tilapia or even shrimp could work, but adjust cooking times accordingly since they cook faster.
Kalamata Olives: These add a nice briny punch. If you don’t have them, green olives can be a good substitute, though they have a different flavor profile. You could also omit them if you prefer less salt.
Capers: They contribute a tangy flavor that’s signature to puttanesca. If you want to skip them, a splash of lemon juice could provide a bit of acidity instead.
Diced Tomatoes: Using canned is convenient and saves time. You can also use fresh tomatoes; just peel and chop them, but you might need a bit more broth to help create a sauce.
How Can I Ensure My Fish Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking fish can be tricky, but with some simple steps, you can achieve great results!
- Preheat your skillet and add oil before putting in the onions. This helps with even cooking.
- Be gentle when placing the fish in the sauce to avoid breaking the fillets. Cook them covered for an even steam effect.
- Check for doneness by using a fork; if the fish flakes easily, it’s ready! This usually takes 8-10 minutes.
- Don’t rush; letting it simmer in the sauce enhances the flavor of the fish.
This dish is all about balance and simplicity, so feel free to tweak it to your taste! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Savory Fish Puttanesca Mediterranean Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or sea bass), about 6 oz each
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup vegetable or fish broth (or water)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or cooked pasta, for serving (optional)
Time Needed
This entire recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner. You can have a delicious Mediterranean meal on the table in no time!
Instructions
1. Sauté the Base Ingredients
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or shallow pan over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Spices
Next, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes to the pan. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This will give your sauce a beautiful aroma.
3. Make the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 5-7 minutes, letting it thicken slightly while the flavors meld together.
4. Incorporate Olives and Capers
Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the halved olives and rinsed capers. Give it a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. This is where the magic of puttanesca happens with those bold and briny flavors!
5. Add the Fish
Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: the fish fillets. Gently place them on top of the sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged. Cover the pan with a lid and let the fish cook for about 8-10 minutes, depending on its thickness. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Finish and Garnish
While the fish cooks, carefully spoon some of the sauce over the top to keep it moist. Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of freshness and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your fish puttanesca hot, alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce or over a bed of pasta or rice. Enjoy this delightful Mediterranean meal that’s both easy to make and full of robust flavor!
This recipe captures the bold, briny flavors of traditional puttanesca with a tender, flaky fish twist. Happy cooking!
FAQ – Easy Savory Fish Puttanesca Recipe
Can I Use Any Type of Fish for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While cod, halibut, and sea bass are ideal choices due to their firmness, feel free to use any white fish like tilapia or even flaky fish like salmon. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary since some fish may cook faster or slower.
What If I Don’t Like Olives or Capers?
No problem! Olives and capers provide a briny flavor, but you can omit them if they’re not your preference. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some sun-dried tomatoes to maintain that tanginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce in advance and store it separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat the sauce, add the fish, and cook until done. This method saves you time while still delivering delicious flavors!
