Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives

Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bowties with Potatoes, Capers, and Olives is a delightful dish that combines the hearty texture of potatoes with the tangy flavors of capers and olives, all brought together with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients creating a symphony of flavors. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, perfect for any occasion.

History

The origins of this recipe can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where olives, capers, and olive oil are staple ingredients. Over time, it has evolved and been adapted in various regions, incorporating local ingredients such as potatoes and fresh herbs. This version of the recipe brings a modern twist to traditional flavors, making it a contemporary classic.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
0.33 cup chopped onion
2 slices tempeh "bacon," diced
2 cups thinly sliced small red-skinned potatoes
0.5 cup white wine
0.25 cup fresh basil, cut into thin strips
0.5 cup halved, Greek or Italian olives
1 tbsp drained capers
1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
8 oz (227 g) large bowtie pasta (farfalle)
0.25 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

How to prepare

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and tempeh "Bacon" and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, for about 2 minutes.
2. Add potatoes to the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Add wine and basil to the pan and cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Add capers and broth and cook, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half, for about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Add 1 tbsp of salt and pasta to the boiling water, stirring to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta until it is just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well.
5. Add parsley to the sauce and stir well. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper. Add the pasta and toss to coat. Serve hot.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a vegetable-based broth. You can also add other vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the potatoes are cooked perfectly, slice them thinly and evenly. This allows them to cook through without becoming mushy. When cooking the pasta, make sure the water is boiling before adding the pasta to prevent it from sticking together. Lastly, adding the fresh herbs at the end of the cooking process preserves their flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served on its own or accompanied by a fresh green salad for added fiber and nutrients. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include sautéing to develop flavors and boiling to cook the pasta to perfection. Sautéing the onions and potatoes before adding the liquid ingredients intensifies their flavors and textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bowtie pasta, you can use another type of pasta such as penne or fusilli. Sweet potatoes can be a delicious substitute for red-skinned potatoes, and for a different flavor profile, try using rosemary instead of basil.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its ingredients. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of this dish beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this dish contains approximately 350 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option suitable for a main meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, primarily from the potatoes and pasta. A serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a substantial energy source.

Fats

The olive oil and olives contribute healthy fats to this dish, with a total fat content of around 10 grams per serving. These are primarily monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

While not high in protein, this dish provides about 8 grams per serving, mainly from the bacon and vegetable broth. For a higher protein content, consider adding a lean protein source such as chicken or tofu.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the potatoes, vitamin K from the basil, and various B vitamins from the whole wheat pasta. It also provides minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten (from the pasta) and may contain traces of nuts or soy depending on the vegetable broth used. It is suitable for those avoiding dairy and eggs.

Summary

Overall, Bowties with Potatoes, Capers, and Olives is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates for energy, healthy fats, a moderate amount of protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Summary

Bowties with Potatoes, Capers, and Olives is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delightful way. With its balance of nutrients and vibrant flavors, it's a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Whether you're looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. My grandmother, Nonna Maria, was known far and wide for her delicious cooking, and she was always eager to share her recipes with me.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching Nonna Maria prepare a meal, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook from the shelf. It was filled with handwritten notes, splattered with sauce, and well-loved. She flipped through the pages until she came to a recipe for Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives. As she read the ingredients and instructions aloud, my mouth watered at the thought of combining such unique flavors.

Nonna Maria explained that she had learned this recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to Sicily many years ago. She described how the combination of tender potatoes, briny capers, and salty olives created a harmony of flavors that was simply irresistible. I could tell by the twinkle in her eye that this dish held a special place in her heart.

With a patient hand, Nonna Maria guided me through the steps of preparing the dish. We boiled the bowtie pasta until it was al dente, then drained it and set it aside. In a separate pot, we sautéed diced potatoes in olive oil until they were golden brown and tender. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, a mix of savory herbs and sweet onions.

Next, we added the capers and olives, letting their flavors meld with the potatoes. Nonna Maria always stressed the importance of allowing each ingredient to shine on its own while also complementing the others. She believed that cooking was an art form, a way to express love and creativity through food.

As we tossed the pasta with the potato mixture, I marveled at how the colors and textures came together in a beautiful symphony. The bowties were coated in a light sauce that clung to each noodle, adding a richness that was both comforting and satisfying. Nonna Maria sprinkled Parmesan cheese on top, the final touch that elevated the dish to perfection.

When we sat down to eat, the flavors exploded on my taste buds. The creamy potatoes contrasted with the briny capers and olives, creating a dance of flavors that left me craving more. Nonna Maria watched me with a smile, pleased that I had embraced the recipe with such enthusiasm.

From that day on, Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives became a staple in our household. I would often cook it for family gatherings, impressing my loved ones with the intricate flavors and textures. Each time I made the dish, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who had passed down their culinary wisdom to me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing Bowties with Potatoes, Capers and Olives for my own grandchildren, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude. This recipe is more than just a dish – it is a link to my past, a reminder of the love and tradition that has shaped me into the cook I am today.

As I watch my grandchildren take their first bite of the pasta, their eyes widening in delight, I know that the legacy of Nonna Maria and her cherished recipe will live on for generations to come. And I can only hope that one day, they too will feel the same sense of wonder and connection that I felt all those years ago.