Puttanesca-Style Spicy Tomato Relish

1. Infuse Oil with Garlic

Start by pouring ⅓ cup of olive oil into a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the 6 chopped garlic cloves. Stir the garlic until it starts to sizzle, which will infuse the oil with a robust garlic flavor, crucial for the depth of the sauce.

2. Simmer Sauce

Next, stir in 1 cup of Simple Tomato Sauce, 3 tablespoons of chopped capers, ¼ cup of chopped black olives, and ¼ teaspoon (or more, if you prefer extra heat) of dried chile flakes. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious blend that defines this relish.

3. Add Parsley and Anchovies

After the sauce has simmered, add the ¼ cup of chopped parsley. This will add a burst of freshness and color to the sauce. Then, incorporate the 3 anchovies that you have soaked, filleted, and chopped. Allow them to cook for 1-2 minutes until they dissolve into the sauce, enriching it with a savory umami depth that is characteristic of puttanesca.

4. Adjust Seasoning

Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed. This ensures that the seasoning is balanced and the flavors are just right. Your puttanesca-style spicy tomato relish is now ready to be tossed with pasta or used as desired. Enjoy!