Fusilli alla Mediterranean Recipe

Mediterranean Fusilli Pasta Delight

Welcome to a culinary journey through the sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean! This vibrant Fusilli Pasta recipe combines the robust tastes of ripe tomatoes, aromatic fresh basil, and the briny goodness of black olives and capers. Anchored by the umami-rich anchovies and the subtle heat of chopped garlic, this dish is elevated by the lusciousness of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper.

Topped with a generous grating of Pecorino Romano or Parmesan, every bite of this dish promises a symphony of flavors that are both comforting and invigorating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal, this recipe is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine. Let’s get cooking and bring a slice of this coastal paradise to your table!

What Makes This Dish Mediterranean?

This pasta dish embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine through several key ingredients and flavor profiles:

1. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a staple in Mediterranean cooking, offering a burst of sweetness and acidity that forms the base of many dishes in the region.
2. Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbal note that is quintessentially Mediterranean. It's commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean dishes to infuse a refreshing aroma and flavor.
3. Olives: Black olives bring a rich, briny flavor to the dish, a characteristic taste found in many Mediterranean recipes. They provide depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
4. Capers: Capers contribute a tangy and slightly salty flavor, often used in Mediterranean cuisine to add a punch of brightness and acidity to dishes like pasta, salads, and fish.
5. Anchovies: Anchovies lend a savory depth and umami richness to the dish. They are a common ingredient in Mediterranean cooking, especially in sauces like puttanesca, where they enhance the overall flavor profile.
6. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Olive oil is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, celebrated for its rich, fruity flavor and health benefits. Extra virgin olive oil, in particular, adds a luxurious silkiness to the dish and ties together all the flavors.
7. Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, while not exclusive to the Mediterranean, are frequently used in Mediterranean recipes to provide a salty, savory finish that complements the other ingredients.
8. Fusilli Pasta: While pasta itself is not unique to the Mediterranean, Fusilli pasta, with its corkscrew shape, is a popular choice for Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Its spiral shape holds sauces and flavors well, making it an ideal pairing for the robust ingredients in this recipe.

By combining these ingredients, this pasta dish captures the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of the Mediterranean region, offering a taste of its sun-drenched shores with every bite.

📖 Recipe

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Fusilli alla Mediterranean Recipe

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time10 minutes mins

Total Time20 minutes mins

Course: Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 4 - 6 servings

Ingredients

• 8 oz tomato chopped
• 1 bunch fresh basil
• 12 black olives pitted
• 12 capers
• 1 clove garlic chopped
• 2 anchovies chopped
• 4 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
• freshly ground pepper to taste
• 2 oz Pecorino romano or parmesan
• 12 oz Fusilli pasta

Instructions

• Start by heating a big pot of water for the pasta.
• Chop the ripe tomato and the basil, pit the olives,then chop the garlic and anchovies.
• Grate the cheese and get ready to cook.
• Combine all the ingredients except for the pasta . Mix gently.
• Boil the fusilli al dente and add to the sauce, toss and serve immediately.

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