Pakistan – Spaghetti

By Muhammad Shazil

Introduction

Spaghetti  is an Italian pasta dish invented in Naples in the mid-20th century. Its ingredients typically include tomatoes, olive oil, anchovies, olives, capers and garlic, in addition to pasta.

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves, crushed
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 400 g can chopped tomatoes
• 5 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
• 120 g pitted black olives
• 2 tbsp capers drained
• 300 g dried spaghetti
• ½ small bunch of parsley finely chopped

Method

• Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over a medium-low heat. Add the onion along with a generous pinch of salt and fry for 10 mins, or until soft. Add the garlic and chili, if using, and cook for a further minute.

• Stir the tomatoes, anchovies, olives and capers into the onion, bring to a gentle simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15 mins. Season to taste.

• Meanwhile, bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Cook the spaghetti following pack instructions, then drain and toss with the sauce and parsley.