Pasta With Italian Sauce
A quick and flavorful pasta dish with a rich Italian tomato sauce, olives, and garlic, perfect for weeknight dinners and those craving authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan.
- Pour in stewed tomatoes, chopped garlic, and sliced black olives.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the sauce is thick.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the garlic in the olive oil before adding the tomatoes and olives. You can substitute any canned tomatoes if Del Monte isn't available, but try to choose ones with Italian seasoning for authenticity. If you're looking for a lighter option, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. This sauce works well with a variety of Italian recipes, so feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a twist, try serving it alongside Tangy Italian Mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the pasta and sauce cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the sauce in a saucepan over low heat to prevent it from thickening too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Italian Sauce contains roughly 307 calories, with 13g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh tomatoes, aim for about 2 pounds, peeled and diced. You may need to cook them longer to achieve a similar consistency to the canned stewed tomatoes. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the acidity.
What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?
You can enhance the sauce by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Simply chop them and sauté with the garlic before adding the tomatoes and olives. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds more color and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you skip the cheese. The sauce is full of flavor from the tomatoes and olives, making it delicious without any animal products. Serve it with a vegan pasta option for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).