Tilapia is one of my favorite types of fish. I love it for it’s firm and moist texture, and when it cooks up, it turns a bright white, not to mention it holds up to any sauce you make with it. and for some odd reason it never overcooks!! I’ve had it many different ways, but this by far, is one of my favorites.
There’s much speculation about the origin of the name Puttanesca, which is slang for “ladies of the evening”. Legend says that they would make big pots of this to fortify themselves between “appointments”, and it is known for it’s very “spicy” characteristic. Yes, this is not a delicate sauce by any means, the flavors here are strong and bold!!!
There are many different versions of Puttanesca, it’s really very easy to make. I think the most important thing is to use quality ingredients, the main ones being tomatoes, olives and capers.Simply saute some olive oil with a good amount of garlic and onions till soft, sprinkle in red pepper flakes, add some slightly crushed tomatoes with a couple of handfulls of olives ( I used pitted Kalamata’s) and capers. You could add some oregano and basil, if you like, and as always salt, and a generous sprinkling of black pepper. Just let all the flavors blend for about 15 min’s or so, it’s a very quick sauce.
As far as the Tilapia goes, pan saute in a little olive oil till bright white, it just takes a couple of minutes.
So when you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold I hope you try Puttanesca sauce, it’s also great with pasta, chicken or whatever!!!
Buon Appetito!!!
I’m Marie, a wife, mother, mother-in-law, and gramma of two beautiful girls. My passion is food, clear and simple but especially Italian food, hence the name of my blog, Proud Italian Cook. I want you to feel right at home here so grab a cup of coffee, I’ll get the pastries, take a look around and enjoy your visit! {
Hello Anonymous, You’re absolutely right, that’s what “ladys of the evening” means…Whore. I wasn’t trying to paint it prettier, I chose to say it a little more tactful, besides, everyone gets it anyway!!
Puttanesca or puttana does not mean “lady of the evening”. It simply means WHORE. No need to paint it prettier colors. The dish was prepared by prostitutes in Naples to their customers because it is quick and cheap to make.
All my favorite flavors and with Tilapia! Bookmarked!!
Thanks everyone for all your comments!! I really appreciate it!!!
Jane, welcome and Thanks for visiting, hope you do stop by again!
I found you through Champaign Taste and I just love your blog. My ex sister in law is Italin and I learned so much from her. She is still a good friend to me and I have wowed many a dinner guest with her recipes. I can’t wait to come back to read more!
One of my favourites too!! We have a pizza puttanesca on our menu but isn’t the most popular unfortunately as pineapple and chicken is the preferred pizza toppings in Ireland – BOO HOO!!:(
Hey Marie! I love your new photo in your profile. How pretty you are! Why was I picturing you as a little old Italian mama? haha
Your dish looks delicious Marie..as always 🙂
This looks really good! I had tilapia for the first time not to long ago. A tomato sauce with olives and capers sounds pretty tasty. I will have to try it.
Great combo , and light eating with bold flavors!I love anything with olives and capers.
I love puttanesca! One of my all time favorite sauces.
Puttanesca…probably one of the first italian dishes that I had here and one that I immediately took to (the truth is I take to most anything!).
I can just smell the aroma through those images!
Puttanesca is one of my favourite pasta sauces. The rich blend of flavours would be wonderful with the fish as well! Great start to the New Year!