If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying, this Pasta with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is just the ticket. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity without skimping on bold flavors, combining briny olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this recipe delivers that delightful Mediterranean charm with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, thoughtful ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. From the robust olives to the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, every element adds color and taste to this lovely dish.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose shapes that hold onto the sauce and mix-ins beautifully, ensuring every forkful is satisfying.
- 1 cup pitted green and black olives, halved: The star for their briny punch that contrasts perfectly with the sweet tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A dose of aromatic depth that infuses the olive oil with warmth and richness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These bring a burst of freshness and vibrant red color, brightening up the dish visually and in flavor.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The heart of the sauce, adding silkiness and a fruity note that ties everything together.
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped: An herbaceous lift that makes the dish feel lively and fresh.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, nutty finishing touch that melts into the pasta for added creaminess and flavor depth.
How to Make Pasta with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures a perfect bite—tender with just a little chew. Once cooked, drain the pasta but save a cup of the cooking water; it’s magic for loosening the sauce later.
Step 2: Build the Flavored Base
Heat your extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it just long enough until it becomes fragrant—this gentle cooking releases its wonderful aroma without burning. This garlic-infused oil is the flavor foundation of the whole dish.
Step 3: Add Olives and Cherry Tomatoes
Next, stir in the halved olives and cherry tomatoes. Cook them together for about 3 to 4 minutes so the tomatoes soften just enough to release their sweet juices while the olives warm through. This melding creates an irresistible medley of savory and sweet notes.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet and toss everything together. Use some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the mixture if it feels a bit dry—this step helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta without being too thick or watery.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Parmesan
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth will melt the cheese slightly, creating a silky finish that’s rich and herbaceous. This last step elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Dish it up right away and, if you like, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for that perfect cheesy pop. This pasta is at its best fresh—warm, full of flavor, and utterly comforting.
How to Serve Pasta with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh basil leaves on top not only brightens the presentation but also refreshes each bite. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving can add a lovely glossy finish and deepen the flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance, or some crusty artisan bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or roasted vegetables complement the Mediterranean vibes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in small ramekins as individual portions during a dinner party. Alternatively, toss it with some toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of chili flakes to introduce a little crunch or subtle heat. Brightening it up with a touch of lemon zest can add an uplifting citrus note that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when rested, making reheated portions just as enjoyable.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well because the texture of tomatoes and fresh herbs can suffer, turning mushy once thawed. It’s better to enjoy it fresh or keep leftovers refrigerated.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave reheating works fine too, but keep the heat moderate to preserve the delicate flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green and black olives provide a nice color and flavor contrast, you can experiment with kalamata or stuffed olives for a different twist—just adjust saltiness accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast, which still gives a savory, cheesy flavor.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Penne or fusilli are great because their ridges and tubes catch the sauce beautifully, but feel free to try spaghetti or farfalle if preferred. The key is to use pasta that holds onto the flavorful mixture well.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a delicious safe option.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
Adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even cannellini beans can boost the protein and make it a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also pair wonderfully for extra nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is a warm hug on a plate—bright, flavorful, and so incredibly satisfying. Its simplicity hides a wonderful depth that keeps you coming back for more. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the way these humble ingredients come alive together. Happy cooking!
Print
Pasta with Olives and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring a savory blend of green and black olives, fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, finished with grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup pitted green and black olives, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Others
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water for later use.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Olives and Tomatoes: Add the halved olives and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the flavors meld, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine with the olive and tomato mixture. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Basil and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts slightly and incorporates into the pasta.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, adding extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired, and enjoy your vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency while mixing.
- Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with a vegetarian-friendly alternative if desired.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or crusty bread.
