Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender penne coated in a savory tomato and olive sauce, accented with fresh basil and melted cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it combines bold Mediterranean flavors with comforting pasta goodness.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. penne or other small tubular pasta ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp. virgin olive oil, divided ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped garlic ⓘ
- 1 c. pitted ripe olives, sliced ⓘ
- 1/4 c. packed fresh basil leaves, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. bottled red pepper flakes ⓘ
- 2 c. tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 c. cubed Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the penne in boiling water until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Return the pasta to the pan and keep warm.
- In a skillet, sauté the garlic slowly in 3 tablespoons of olive oil until softened, but not browned.
- Add the sliced olives, chopped basil, red pepper flakes, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Heat the mixture until warmed through.
- Stir in the cubed mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, cooking until the cheeses start to melt.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
- Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using whole wheat penne or adding some sautéed spinach to the dish. If you're out of fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch, though you'll need less. You can also substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version. Experiment with different olives for varied taste, like Kalamata or Castelvetrano.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors. For a heartier option, you could serve it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Eggplant Supreme or Cabbage Surprise.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it moist, and warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta contains roughly 631 calories, with 24g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works well, you can substitute with any small tubular pasta like rigatoni or even farfalle. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available in stores that mimic the texture and taste of regular pasta, ensuring you can enjoy the dish without gluten.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make this dish more filling, you can add cooked protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You could also incorporate roasted vegetables or a side of Mediterranean Vegetable Pie to round out the 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).