Pasta Rustica

Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini or fusilli pasta

• 6 slices bacon

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 medium onions, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 (28oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1/2 cup sliced Lindsay® Ripe Pitted Olives or Crafted Green Ripe Pitted Olives

• 2 tablespoons drained Lindsay Capers

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, in a large deep skillet, cook bacon until crisp.

3. Drain bacon on paper towel; break into 1/2-inch pieces.

4. Discard bacon drippings from skillet; add oil.

5. Add onions; sauté over medium heat 5 minutes.

6. Add bell pepper, parsley, garlic and pepper flakes; cook 2 minutes.

7. Add tomatoes and reserved bacon; simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Stir in olives, capers and oregano; simmer 2 minutes.

9. Season to taste with salt, if desired.

10. Drain pasta; toss with sauce and cheese.

11. Transfer to serving plates and serve with additional cheese, if desired.