July 31, 2022

Olive Sauce Pasta Recipe

Ever since my trip to a quaint seaside town in southern Italy, I’ve been obsessed with bold, briny flavors—especially olives. One of the dishes that left a lasting impression was a simple yet stunning Olive Sauce Pasta served at a rustic family-run trattoria. It was love at first bite. Back home in my kitchen, I recreated that magical experience with pantry staples and fresh herbs. This Olive Sauce Pasta is a celebration of simplicity and Mediterranean goodness, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

There’s something magical about the Mediterranean — the sun, the sea, and especially the food. One summer evening during a holiday in southern Italy, I found myself seated at a small, family-run trattoria overlooking the sea. The owner recommended a dish he called “pasta all’olive.” I wasn’t sure what to expect, but as soon as I took the first bite, I knew I had found something special — simple ingredients, yet bold and comforting flavors.

Back home in my kitchen, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I wanted to recreate that warm, briny goodness. So, I opened my pantry, pulled out some black and green olives, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and pasta, and got to work. The result? This Olive Sauce Pasta — my homage to that unforgettable dinner.

Let me walk you through how I make it now on quiet evenings when I’m craving comfort with a Mediterranean twist.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Boil the Pasta – Start with the Basics

First things first, I bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is important — it seasons the pasta from the inside out. I toss in the spaghetti (or whatever pasta I have on hand — penne works beautifully too) and cook it until it’s just al dente. Before draining, I make sure to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water and set it aside — that starchy liquid gold helps tie everything together later.

Step 2: The Garlic Sizzle – Aromatic Beginnings

While the pasta cooks, I heat a good glug of olive oil in a large pan. In goes the garlic, finely chopped, along with a pinch of red chili flakes. As the garlic begins to turn golden, the kitchen fills with that familiar, comforting aroma. It’s the kind of smell that instantly makes me feel at home.

Step 3: Olives, Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Herbs – Building Bold Flavor

Now comes the star of the show — olives. I love using a mix of green and black for a balance of sharpness and depth. I chop them roughly and toss them into the sizzling garlic oil. Along with the olives, I add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of dried oregano. This combination is my secret weapon — salty, tangy, herbaceous goodness in every bite.

Step 4: Tomato Time – Let it Simmer

Next, I pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and stir everything together. As the sauce starts to bubble, the flavors begin to meld — it’s rich, vibrant, and smells divine. I let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. If it gets too thick, I loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Mix and Marry – Bringing It All Together

With the sauce ready, I add the drained pasta straight into the pan. I toss everything gently, making sure each strand is coated in that luscious olive-studded sauce. A few more minutes on the stove and it’s perfect — the pasta soaks in all those robust flavors.

Step 6: The Final Touch – Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, I scatter some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top. If I’m feeling indulgent, I add a sprinkle of parmesan or even some crumbled feta for a salty kick. And that’s it — Olive Sauce Pasta, straight from my heart to your plate.

What is Olive Sauce Pasta?

Olive Sauce Pasta is a Mediterranean-style pasta dish featuring a savory, tangy sauce made with olives, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s bold, aromatic, and rich in umami—perfect for those who love deep flavors without heavy cream or cheese. You can use black olives, green olives, or a mix for a complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or pasta of choice

2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)

1/2 cup pitted black olives, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, sliced
1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Grated parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Olives and Tomatoes
Stir in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Add Crushed Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 5: Season and Combine
Season with salt and pepper. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Simmer for another 2 minutes for flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs and grated cheese if desired.