Capers, olives, and anchovies are the Three Musketeers of Southern Italian cooking. Here they are mixed with tomatoes and pasta to stuff sweet bell peppers before roasting. If the peppers are very large or if I am making these as part of an antipasto and want smaller portions, I cut the peppers in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and stuff each half for smaller individual servings.

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• Salt
• 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 (2-ounce) can anchovy fillets, drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
• ¼ cup chopped pitted imported black olives
• Freshly ground pepper
• 6 large red or yellow bell peppers
• 4 ounces ditalini, tubetti, or other small pasta
• 1 cup water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Oil a baking dish just large enough to hold the peppers upright.
2. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
3. In a large skillet, cook the garlic in the oil over medium heat for 1 minute until softened. Stir in the tomatoes and oregano and cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the anchovies, capers, olives, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Meanwhile, cut the tops off the peppers and set them aside. With a small sharp knife, remove and discard the seeds and the white membranes from the insides.
5. Add the pasta to the boiling water, stir, and cook, stirring frequently, until al dente. Drain well, then stir the pasta into the tomato sauce.
6. Fill each pepper about three-quarters full with the pasta mixture. Place the tops on them and arrange them in the baking dish. Pour the water around them.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender when pierced with a fork.
8. Serve warm.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

1. Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley over the stuffed peppers before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
2. Serve with a side salad: Pair the pasta stuffed peppers with a simple side salad of mixed greens or a Mediterranean salad. The crispness of the salad complements the savory flavors of the peppers.
3. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the stuffed peppers. The acidity of the glaze balances out the richness of the pasta filling.
4. Serve with crusty bread: Accompany the stuffed peppers with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and adds a satisfying element to the meal.
5. Pair with a glass of red wine: Serve the pasta stuffed peppers with a glass of your favorite red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot. The wine’s fruity and robust flavors complement the savory and rich flavors of the dish.
6. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan: Just before serving, grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the stuffed peppers. The nutty and salty flavor of the cheese enhances the overall taste of the dish.