There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a pasta dish wafting through the kitchen, is there? The air fills with a warm, inviting scent, reminiscent of sun-soaked Mediterranean summers and carefree evenings. Mediterranean pickled veggies Imagine twirling your fork around a plate of perfectly cooked pasta with olives, each bite bursting with flavor that dances on your palate.
Now, let’s be real for a moment. This pasta with olives isn’t just another meal; it’s a ticket to culinary bliss. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends – it was like a fiesta in their mouths! Picture laughter ringing out over bowls filled to the brim, everyone fighting for the last olive. Mediterranean quinoa bowl It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. Trust me, this recipe will become your new go-to!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful pasta with olives takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its robust flavors and colorful presentation will wow your guests without breaking a sweat
- The dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and can be served warm or cold as a salad
I’ll never forget the look on my best friend’s face when she took her first bite; it was pure joy! She even declared it “life-changing.” Who knew pasta could wield such power?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Any shape works here; I usually opt for penne or fusilli for their sauce-hugging capabilities.
Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds depth; opt for pitted ones to save time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves create an aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they add brightness and color.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor profile.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh herbs; they add a delightful fragrance and freshness. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a savory umami kick that ties everything together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes will do.
Sauté the Aromatics: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute is all you need.
Add the Olives and Tomatoes: Stir in the olives and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them until they soften slightly and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine Everything Together: Drain your pasta once cooked but reserve some cooking water. Add drained pasta to the skillet along with some reserved water if needed. Toss everything well to combine.
Toss in Fresh Basil and Cheese: Off the heat, mix in chopped fresh basil and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese. The cheese should melt slightly from the residual heat—yum!
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate up your delicious creation! A sprinkle of extra cheese on top never hurts—enjoy every last bite!
This pasta with olives is not only simple but also an intimate experience that unites flavors beautifully while keeping you connected with those you share it with. hearty vegetable stew Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This delightful pasta with olives is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavors
- The combination of briny olives and al dente pasta will tantalize your taste buds
- Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for those weeknight dinners!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente. While it cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add olives and herbs for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the olives or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil for extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your pasta with olives turns out perfectly each time, consider these tips</strong>: Use high-quality olive oil for added flavor
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain that delightful texture
- Lastly, don’t skip on seasoning—salt is your best friend!
Sharing this dish at a recent dinner party brought so much joy as friends raved about how simple yet delicious it was—definitely a keeper!
FAQ
What type of olives work best for Pasta with Olives?
Green or black Kalamata olives provide a robust flavor that enhances the dish beautifully.
Can I make Pasta with Olives vegan?
For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with pasta recipe.
Yes, simply omit any cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives for a delicious vegan option.
How can I add protein to my Pasta with Olives?
Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost without sacrificing flavor.
Pasta with Olives
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pasta with olives is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. In just 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant meal bursting with fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and briny olives. This versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Serve it warm or cold as a salad for an unforgettable culinary experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup pitted green and black olives, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve some cooking water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the olives and cherry tomatoes to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine drained pasta with the skillet mixture and toss well, adding reserved cooking water as needed.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese until melted slightly.
- Serve immediately with extra cheese on top if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
