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Ziti with Tomatoes, Olives and Fried Capers

Ziti with Tomatoes, Olives and Fried Capers

By Rose HattabaughApril 25, 2023

  • Makes
    4 to 6 servings
  • Cook Time
    45 mintues
  • Rating

This pantry-centric pasta dish, full of high-impact southern Italian flavors, is made by simmering ziti directly in a briny, garlicky sauce. In addition to streamlining cooking and cleanup, the technique ensures each piece of pasta is seasoned perfectly throughout. For added pops of flavor and crunchy texture, we fry capers until browned and crisp, then sprinkle them on just before serving. A finishing drizzle of olive oil and dusting of cheese bring a bit of body that ties everything together.

Tip

Don’t forget to dry the capers before frying. Pat them with a paper towel, removing as much liquid as possible; that way, they’re less likely to splatter on contact with the hot oil.

Ingredients
  • 3

    tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to serve

  • ¼

    cup drained capers, patted dry

  • 3

    medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • ¼-1/2

    teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • 1

    28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand

  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper

  • 1

    pound ziti

  • ½

    cup pitted black olives, roughly chopped

  • 1

    ounce Parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated (½ cup), plus more to serve

  • ½

    cup lightly packed fresh basil, chopped

Step 1

In a large pot over medium, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the capers and cook, stirring often, until crisp, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and, using a slotted spoon, transfer the capers to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the oil in the pot.

Step 2

Return the pot to medium and add the garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the pepper flakes, tomatoes with juices and ½ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Add 3 cups water and the pasta; stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high, then reduce to medium, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 3

Off heat, stir in the olives and Parmesan. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Add the basil and stir vigorously, then taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serve sprinkled with the fried capers and additional cheese, as well as drizzled with additional oil.