Pasta with Tomatoes, Capers, Olives and Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, 2 sliced, 1 minced
- ½ cup fresh bread crumbs
- ¼ tsp. hot red pepper flakes
- 1 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes, with juice
- 2 tbsp. capers, rinsed and coarsely chopped
- ½ cup green or black olives, pitted and coarsely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- ¾-pound spaghetti, preferably a good whole-wheat brand
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, optional
- ¼ cup Parmesan, freshly grated, optional
Instructions
- Begin heating a large pot of water for the pasta.
- Meanwhile, combine 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and the sliced garlic, over medium-low heat, in a medium saucepan or skillet.
- Cook, stirring often, until the garlic turns golden, about two minutes; do not let it take on any more color than this.
- Remove the garlic slices with a slotted spoon and discard; add the bread crumbs to the pan; turn the heat to medium, and cook, stirring, until the bread crumbs are crisp; remove from the heat, and set aside.
- Return the pan to medium heat, and add the remaining olive oil, the red pepper flakes and the minced garlic.
- Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic smells fragrant; add the tomatoes, capers and olives; bring to a simmer, and simmer until the tomatoes have cooked down and smell fragrant; 15 to 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- When the water comes to a boil, salt generously and add the spaghetti.
- Cook al dente, following the cooking recommendations on the package but checking about a minute before the suggested time.
- Drain and toss with the tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs and parsley on top, toss again briefly and serve, passing the Parmesan at the table.
Notes
This recipe can be made, several hours before cooking the pasta, through #7 “season with salt and pepper, to taste” .
The bread crumbs will keep for a couple of weeks in the freezer; re-heat and crisp in a dry pan over medium heat.
The tomato sauce will keep for a few days in the refrigerator.
