Olive Sauce Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy pasta dish, this Olive Sauce Pasta is the perfect choice. With the rich brininess of olives, a hint of garlic, and a touch of spice, this sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta of your choice. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Packed with bold, savory flavors
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
- Can be customized with your favorite pasta and add-ins
Ingredients
For the Olive Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed olives (green and black), pitted and chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup vegetable broth or pasta water
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional, for extra brininess)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative
- Lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.
- Prepare the Olive Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped olives and red pepper flakes. Sauté for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the capers if using, and let the sauce cook for another 2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
- Enjoy!
- Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Make it Creamy: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy twist.
- Use Different Olives: Try Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or Manzanilla olives for varied flavors.
- Make it Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
This Olive Sauce Pasta is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s sure to be a hit.
Would you like to include a wine pairing suggestion or side dish ideas? 😊
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