Peasant Pasta Fit for a King

Elevate humble ingredients into a flavor-packed masterpiece with "Peasant Pasta Fit for a King." This quick and easy pasta recipe combines al dente spaghetti with a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired sauce featuring juicy canned tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy capers. Aromatic garlic and onions form a fragrant base, while parsley and a hint of red chili flakes (optional) add freshness and subtle heat. Topped with a shower of grated Parmesan cheese, this rustic yet luxurious dish impresses with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this comforting recipe is a must-try for lovers of classic Italian flavors. Ideal for those searching for "quick Mediterranean pasta," "easy vegetarian pasta dinner," or "flavorful pantry pasta recipe."

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 g spaghetti (or any long pasta)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 400 g canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 75 g kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 15 g fresh parsley, chopped
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0.5 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 4 L water for boiling pasta

Directions

Step 1

Bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions (approximately 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and the garlic is fragrant, but not browned.

Step 4

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.

Step 5

Add the sliced Kalamata olives, rinsed capers, dried oregano, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes to infuse the sauce with additional depth.

Step 6

Season the sauce with freshly ground black pepper and adjust salt as needed (note: the capers and olives already bring saltiness to the dish).

Step 7

Turn the heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta gently to coat it fully in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.

Step 9

Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(5153.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1633.5

Total Fat 88.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 22.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.4g
Cholesterol 58mg	0%
Sodium 5503.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 164.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.8g	0%
Total Sugars 22.7g
Protein 51.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 860.8mg	0%
Iron 10.9mg	0%
Potassium 1702.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.0%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 39.5%