Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fusilli pasta (regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free)
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano (optional)
- 2 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fusilli
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (typically 10-12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Drain and Toss: Drain the pasta and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate Olives and Capers: Add the sliced olives, capers, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss Together: Add the cooked fusilli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly and let it cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, grated cheese, and toasted breadcrumbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g