Name: Olive and Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 lb seashell pasta; 3 cups tomatoes; 5 garlic cloves; 15 kalamata olives; ¼ cup fresh basil; ¼ cup olive oil; 10 pepperoncini

Traditional Italian flavors shine in this simple, classic pasta dish. Fresh tomatoes and olives marry in a savory fusion, accompanied by a hint of garlic and basil. The dish is completed with tender, seashell pasta that cradles the chunky sauce perfectly.

Photos of Olive and Tomato Pasta Recipe

The kalamata olives are a key ingredient to this recipe. Their unique, robust flavor is not easily replaced. When shopping, look for kalamata olives in the deli section of your supermarket. Similarly, pepperoncini is another ingredient that may not be commonly found in pantries. These small, mild peppers give the dish a slightly tangy, spicy kick.

Ingredients for Olive and Tomato Pasta

Seashell pasta: A type of pasta that resembles the shape of a seashell. It's perfect for this dish as it holds the chunky sauce well.

Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes add a sweet and tangy taste to the pasta dish.

Garlic: Adds a flavor depth and complexity to the pasta sauce.

Kalamata olives: A type of olive that has a distinct, rich taste.

Fresh basil: Gives a fragrant, fresh, and sweet flavor to the dish.

Olive oil: Used to create a velvety, rich base for the sauce.

Pepperoncini: Mild, tangy peppers that add a surprising kick to the dish.

One reader, Consolata Krauss says:

This olive and tomato pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant, and the combination of tomatoes, olives, and basil is simply divine. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. I highly recommend trying it out!

Consolata Krauss

Essential Techniques for Crafting Delicious Pasta Recipes

How to marinate the sauce: Combine the tomatoes, garlic, olives, basil, olive oil, and pepperoncini. Stir together and allow to marinate for as long as possible. Overnight is best.

How to cook the pasta: Cook the seashell pasta according to the package directions, then drain.

How to toss the pasta with the sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the marinated sauce until well combined.

How to serve: Portion the pasta onto plates and serve immediately. Enjoy!

How To Make Olive and Tomato Pasta

This simple and savory tomato pasta makes a flavorful lunch meal, loaded with juicy tomatoes, kalamata olives, and spicy pepperoncini!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbseashell pasta
3cupstomatoes,chopped
5garlic cloves,minced
15kalamata olives,pitted, sliced
¼cupfresh basil,chopped
¼cupolive oil
10pepperoncini

Instructions

Combine the tomatoes, garlic, olives, basil, olive oil, and pepperoncini. Stir together and allow to marinate for as long as possible. Overnight is best.
Cook pasta according to the package directions, then drain.
Toss the pasta with the sauce, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 583.49kcal
Fat: 16.81g
Saturated Fat: 2.39g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.31g
Carbohydrates: 91.83g
Fiber: 5.70g
Sugar: 6.01g
Protein: 16.32g
Sodium: 375.36mg
Calcium: 63.33mg
Potassium: 567.48mg
Iron: 2.52mg
Vitamin A: 54.89µg
Vitamin C: 26.16mg

Mastering the Art of Pasta: A Crucial Technique Tip

When marinating the tomatoes, garlic, olives, basil, olive oil, and pepperoncini, ensure to use a non-reactive bowl such as glass or ceramic. These materials won't react with the acidic ingredients, preserving the pure flavors of your ingredients. Also, remember to cover the bowl with a tight lid or plastic wrap to keep the mixture fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the refrigerator.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Olive and Tomato Pasta

Prep ahead: Save time by prepping ingredients in advance, such as chopping vegetables or marinating meats, to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Prepare large quantities of staple ingredients, such as grains or proteins, to use in multiple dishes throughout the week.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools, saving time during meal preparation.

Time-saving gadgets: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or slow cookers to expedite the cooking process and save time.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to multitask effectively, such as boiling water while prepping ingredients, to save time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Olive and Tomato Pasta Recipe

seashell pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar shape and texture, and it will hold the sauce well.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a convenient substitute and will provide a similar flavor and texture to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a milder flavor and convenience.
kalamata olives - Substitute with green olives: Green olives can be used as a substitute for kalamata olives, providing a similar briny and slightly tangy flavor.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil, providing a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a mild and buttery flavor to the dish.
pepperoncini - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can be used as a substitute for pepperoncini, providing a similar level of heat and spice to the dish.

Presenting the Perfect Olive and Tomato Pasta

Elevate the pasta: Gently twirl the seashell pasta into a neat mound at the center of the plate, ensuring it's not too compacted. This creates a visually appealing base for the dish.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle delicate, whole basil leaves over the pasta, adding a pop of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Create a tomato and olive medley: Arrange the marinated tomatoes, olives, and pepperoncini around the pasta, creating a visually stunning and flavorful border that enhances the overall presentation.
Drizzle with olive oil: Artfully drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the pasta, allowing it to cascade gently down the sides, adding a touch of sheen and richness to the dish.
Emphasize the ingredients: Highlight the key components of the dish by strategically placing a few whole kalamata olives on top of the pasta, showcasing their briny flavor and distinctive appearance.
Use a minimalist approach: Keep the presentation clean and uncluttered, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage, creating an elegant and sophisticated visual appeal.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pasta Dishes

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and pesto.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters or doughs. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Colander: A colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen tool with small holes or perforations used for draining liquids from foods like pasta or rinsing fruits and vegetables.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a versatile, all-purpose knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping a variety of ingredients. It's an essential tool for any chef or home cook.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients. It helps protect your countertops and keeps your knives sharp.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pot with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering small quantities of food.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used for grating or shredding ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Garlic press: A garlic press is a handheld tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves quickly and efficiently, releasing their flavor into dishes.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking, ensuring consistent results.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides, used for frying, sautéing, and browning ingredients.

Preserving Freshness: Storing and Freezing Pasta Dishes

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days.
To freeze the pasta, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen pasta will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the desired amount of pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
If the pasta seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help moisten it up.
The tomatoes, garlic, and basil in the sauce may lose some of their fresh flavor and texture after being frozen and reheated, but the overall dish will still be tasty.

Reheating Leftover Pasta: Tips and Tricks

Stovetop method: place the leftover olive and tomato pasta in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking and help revive the sauce. Stir gently and continuously until the pasta is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. If the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and stir well. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is heated through and steaming. This should take about 1-2 minutes total, depending on the amount of pasta and the strength of your microwave.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of water or olive oil. Stir well and cover the dish with foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and steaming. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to slightly crisp up.
Cold pasta salad: if you prefer a cold dish, consider transforming your leftover olive and tomato pasta into a refreshing pasta salad. Simply toss the cold pasta with additional chopped fresh basil, halved cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your leftover pasta as a delightful cold salad.

Interesting Trivia About Olive and Tomato Pasta

Tomato and olive pasta is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of tomatoes and olives provides a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

Budget-Friendly Pasta: Is This Recipe Economical?

This olive and tomato pasta recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and pasta, are affordable and readily available. The use of olive oil and kalamata olives adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. The dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, making it a practical choice for families. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, earning this recipe a solid 9/10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pasta recipe has some healthy elements, such as the use of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, garlic, and basil, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kalamata olives and olive oil are also rich in healthy monounsaturated fats. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish more nutritionally balanced:

The recipe lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Depending on the amount of pasta consumed per serving, this dish may be high in carbohydrates, which could be a concern for those watching their carb intake or managing blood sugar levels.
The sodium content may be elevated due to the olives and pepperoncini, which could be an issue for individuals with high blood pressure or salt sensitivity.

To enhance the nutritional value of this pasta dish, consider the following suggestions:

Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying.
Reduce the pasta portion and increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the fiber and nutrient content while lowering the overall carbohydrate load.
Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for a higher fiber content and slower release of carbohydrates.
Decrease the amount of olives and pepperoncini, or opt for lower-sodium varieties to reduce the overall salt content of the dish.
Include a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a small boost of protein and calcium.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Recipe

This olive and tomato pasta recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The marinated tomatoes, garlic, olives, and basil create a rich and aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the seashell pasta. The addition of pepperoncini adds a subtle kick, while the olive oil ties everything together beautifully. This dish is a wonderful balance of savory and tangy notes, making it a perfect choice for a light and refreshing meal. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors to shine, resulting in a truly satisfying culinary experience.

Enhance Your Olive and Tomato Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would be the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful olive and tomato pasta. The buttery garlic flavor will complement the tangy tomatoes and briny olives.

Grilled Vegetables: Serve a colorful array of grilled vegetables alongside the pasta for a healthy and satisfying meal. The charred flavors of the vegetables will add depth to the dish.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits would provide a sweet contrast to the savory pasta. The juicy and vibrant fruits will cleanse the palate between bites of the pasta.

Exploring Alternative Pasta Recipes for Variety

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and al dente pasta.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this flavorful mango salsa. The sweet and tangy salsa pairs perfectly with grilled or baked chicken for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. This velvety smooth soup is packed with the cozy flavors of fall and is perfect for a chilly evening.

Berry Crisp: Indulge in a delicious berry crisp for dessert. The sweet and juicy berries are topped with a crispy oat crumble for the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Appetizers and Desserts: Elevating Your Pasta Dining Experience

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and flavorful filling. The combination of ingredients will tantalize the taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. The crisp bread topped with a fresh and vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, and garlic is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for any special occasion.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful and refreshing treat. It's a great way to enjoy the sweetness of summer fruits.

Why trust this Olive and Tomato Pasta Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients. The tomatoes provide a burst of juicy sweetness, while the kalamata olives add a rich and briny depth. The garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor, and the fresh basil lends a touch of herbaceous freshness. The pepperoncini adds a subtle kick of heat, and the olive oil brings everything together with its smooth and luscious texture. Trust in the quality and harmony of these ingredients to create a pasta dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this olive and tomato pasta recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the tomato and olive mixture?

It's best to marinate the tomato and olive mixture for as long as possible, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. The sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes, so feel free to use your favorite.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes to enhance the flavor and add more texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tomato and olive mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, toss it with the sauce, and enjoy.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, this dish is suitable for vegans as it contains no animal products. It's a delicious and satisfying vegan-friendly meal option.