Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (spaghetti recommended)
Sauce
- 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4-5 anchovy fillets, cut into small pieces
- 2-3 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Reserve a splash of pasta water if you want to adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Prepare the tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, open the canned whole tomatoes and crush them by hand in a bowl for a chunky texture. Alternatively, use a fork to crush them.
- Sauté aromatics and anchovies: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and anchovy fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt and the anchovies have dissolved into the oil.
- Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, capers, and Kalamata olives. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Season and combine: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Toss the sauce with the drained pasta, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if you prefer a looser sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use good quality canned whole tomatoes.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes.
- The anchovies melt into the sauce to provide umami, so they aren’t fishy in taste.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if not vegan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
