Definition

Relating to a strong and flavorful tomato sauce that usually includes ingredients like olives, garlic, capers, and hot pepper, often served with pasta.

Example

The chef prepared a delicious puttanesca sauce to accompany the spaghetti.

Conversation

Have you ever tried that puttanesca pasta dish?

Yeah, I had it once at that Italian restaurant downtown.

I love how the puttanesca sauce is so rich and flavorful!

Absolutely! The olives and capers really make it special.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of sauce used in cooking, typically made with tomatoes, garlic, anchovies, capers, and olives.

Example

I made a delicious pasta with puttanesca sauce for dinner.

Conversation

Have you ever tried making puttanesca sauce at home?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really flavorful.

It definitely is! It's packed with garlic, olives, and anchovies.

Root Explanation

Puttanesca is derived from the Italian word 'puttana' (meaning prostitute) with the suffix '-esca' (meaning in the style of). The term refers to a sauce that is said to have been made quickly and easily, possibly by women of the night, hence the connection to the word for prostitute.

Memory Tip

Think of the Italian word for prostitute ('puttana') to remember that 'puttanesca' refers to a sauce made in a quick and easy style, possibly by those who had little time to cook.

Visually Confused Words