If you have some knowledge of the Italian language or culinary history, you might know that puttanesca stems from the Italian word for "prostitute." But is this simply a coincidence, or does this pasta sauce have a sordid past?
Name aside, there's nothing risqué about the actual ingredients. The backbone of this sauce is crushed red tomatoes mixed with olives, capers, garlic, and herbs such as oregano and parsley. In some circles, chili flakes, anchovies, and basil are also the norm.