Save A vibrant, bold pasta dish featuring ditalini tossed in a garlicky tomato sauce with olives, capers, and anchovies for a classic southern Italian flavor.
This recipe combines the perfect balance of savory anchovies and bright lemon zest that always impresses my family during weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) ditalini pasta
- Sauce: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 4 anchovy fillets finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 (400 g / 14 oz) can diced tomatoes, 80 g (1/2 cup) pitted black olives roughly chopped, 2 tbsp capers rinsed and drained, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper to taste, salt to taste
- Finishing: 2 tbsp fresh flat leaf parsley chopped, zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water then drain.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the anchovies and cook, stirring, until they melt into the oil (about 1 minute).
- Step 3:
- Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, capers, and oregano. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5:
- Season the sauce with black pepper and salt (if needed anchovies, olives, and capers are salty).
- Step 6:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Step 7:
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon zest, if using.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Save This dish always brings the family together around the table, celebrating simple Italian flavors we all love.
Variations
For a vegetarian version, omit anchovies and add a splash of soy sauce for umami.
Pairings
Pair with a crisp Italian white wine such as Pinot Grigio for the best dining experience.
Tips on Pasta Selection
Use rigatoni or penne if ditalini is unavailable for similar texture and sauce hold.
Save This quick and flavorful pasta is perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests with authentic Italian taste.
Cooking Guide
- → Can I substitute anchovies in the sauce?
Yes, anchovies can be omitted for a vegetarian option. Adding a splash of soy sauce helps maintain umami depth.
- → What type of pasta works well besides ditalini?
Rigatoni or penne pasta are excellent alternatives that hold the sauce well.
- → How can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor, or add more for extra heat.
- → Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes, reserved pasta water can be added to loosen the sauce and help it adhere evenly to the pasta.
- → What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the bright and savory notes beautifully.