There is something incredibly joyful about a simple, vibrant pasta dish that bursts with fresh flavors and colors. The Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe is just that kind of meal—bright, lively, and packed with Mediterranean goodness. It combines the salty brininess of olives, the sweet freshness of cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic lift of fresh basil, all lovingly tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe quickly becomes a weeknight favorite, offering both comfort and a touch of elegance in each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to the Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, gorgeous texture, and eye-catching color that make this dish so irresistible.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli): Choose ridged pasta like penne or fusilli to hold onto the luscious olive and tomato sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup pitted green and black olives, halved: A mix of olives creates a perfect balance of saltiness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their sweet juiciness softens just enough to mingle with the olives without turning mushy.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of good-quality oil enriches the sauce and coats the pasta with silky goodness.
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped: Basil brings a bright, herbaceous freshness that lifts every bite instantly.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds savory depth and a creamy finish once stirred into the warm pasta.
How to Make Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta. Cook it until just al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures a tender bite with a little snap to it, perfect for balancing the juicy sauce and chunky toppings. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—it’s liquid gold for loosening the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
Warm your skillet over medium heat and add the extra virgin olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic, cooking gently until fragrant—about one minute. The scent at this stage is simply irresistible and sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 3: Add Olives and Cherry Tomatoes
Next, add the halved olives and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Let them cook together for 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly but still hold their shape. This step melds the salty and sweet components, building the foundation of your sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with the Skillet Mixture
Return your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly. If the mixture feels dry or clumpy, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to create a smooth, slightly glossy coating on the pasta. This little trick makes all the difference!
Step 5: Stir in Fresh Basil and Parmesan
Take the skillet off the heat and gently fold in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth of the pasta will soften the cheese just enough to create a creamy texture without melting it completely, and the basil infuses a fresh burst of flavor.
Step 6: Serve Immediately with Extra Cheese
Plate your pasta while it’s still warm and add extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like it cheesy. This dish is best enjoyed immediately when the flavors are freshest and the textures beautifully balanced.
How to Serve Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fun way to elevate this already gorgeous dish. Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze to introduce a hint of crunch or tang. A few fresh basil leaves on top give it a lush, inviting look.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to keep the meal light and fresh. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl to encourage sharing and conversation, or plate it elegantly for a dinner party by twirling individual servings with a fork for a neat and appetizing presentation. Adding a colorful side of roasted vegetables brings an extra pop of color to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled and ready to reheat for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Freezing
While this pasta freezes well, the fresh tomatoes and basil will lose their texture after thawing. If you want to freeze, consider leaving out these fresh elements and adding them fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Microwaving works too—just cover the dish to keep moisture in and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of olives for this recipe?
Absolutely! Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or even mixed olives can add different flavor profiles. Just make sure they are pitted for ease of eating.
Is fresh basil necessary, or can I use dried basil?
Fresh basil is preferred because it adds vibrant aroma and flavor. Dried basil won’t give quite the same punch, but in a pinch, it will work—just add it earlier during cooking to let it hydrate.
What other pasta shapes work besides penne or fusilli?
Any short pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini can hold this sauce well. Even spaghetti works if you prefer a long noodle with your veggies and olives.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar savory note.
How can I make this dish more filling?
Add cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and heartiness without overwhelming the fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
Making the Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine onto your plate. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation create a dish that feels both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring a smile with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this delightful blend of flavors as much as I have!
Print
Pasta with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful pasta dish featuring penne or fusilli tossed with sautéed olives, garlic, and cherry tomatoes, finished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup pitted green and black olives, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook olives and tomatoes: Add the halved olives and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the olives are heated through.
- Toss pasta with the mixture: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the olive and tomato mixture. Toss everything well, adding a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water as needed to loosen the sauce and combine the flavors.
- Add basil and cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts slightly and the basil is evenly incorporated.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta cooking water to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- You can use either green, black olives, or a mix of both to add complexity to the dish.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Fresh basil is key to imparting bright and fresh notes; do not substitute with dried basil for the best flavor.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture when tossed with the sauce.
