Sun-Kissed Tomato and Olive Pasta
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish is the perfect way to celebrate the bounty of summer. The sun-dried tomatoes and olives add a sweet and savory touch, while the fresh thyme provides a bright, herbaceous flavor. The dish is tossed in a simple olive oil dressing and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal that's sure to impress.
The origins of this dish can be traced back to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, where farmers have been drying tomatoes in the sun for centuries. These tomatoes are a staple of Tuscan cuisine, and their concentrated flavor and sweetness make them a perfect addition to pasta dishes. The olives in this dish are also a nod to the region, as Tuscany is home to some of the best olive groves in the world. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and olives creates a flavor that is both complex and satisfying, and the addition of fresh thyme adds a bright, herbaceous note that balances out the richness of the tomatoes and olives. This dish is a testament to the simple yet flavorful cuisine of Tuscany, and it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Sun-Kissed Tomato and Olive Pasta Sun-Kissed Tomato and Olive Pasta Sun-Kissed Tomato and Olive Pasta Sun-Kissed Tomato and Olive Pasta
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound gluten-free penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh thyme
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the thyme and cook for 1 minute more.
  6. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet.
  7. Toss to combine and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and olives adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
  • The fresh thyme provides a bright, herbaceous flavor that balances out the richness of the tomatoes and olives.
  • The dish is tossed in a simple olive oil dressing, which helps to coat the pasta and add flavor without being too heavy.
  • The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of richness and umami to the dish.