Penne with Kalamata Olives, Garlic Roasted Tomatoes, and Goat Cheese
Super easy pasta with goat cheese taking advantage of summer produce's bounty.
Super easy pasta with goat cheese taking advantage of summer produce's bounty.
- 1/4 cup parsley finely chopped
- 1 tbsp coconut or avocado oil
- 12 oz whole wheat or kamut penne dry (use gluten free if necessary)
- 2 - 3 large garlic cloves crushed
- 2 large tomatoes sliced (grape tomatoes work too)
- pinch of salt and ground black pepper
- 2 cups kalamata olives, pitted & cut in halves
- 3 tbsp basil or mint (i prefer) finely chopped
- 3 oz goat cheese crumbled
- salt to taste (if necessary)
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (optional but so good)
- Carbohydrate 2.9103722768489 g
- Cholesterol 11.1980616245 mg
- Fat 4.36584884653248 g
- Fiber 0.829333361075551 g
- Protein 3.66751354255318 g
- Saturated Fat 2.94289903630482 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (132g)
- Sodium 77.5400219837737 mg
- Sugar 2.08103891577335 g
- Trans Fat 0.275922984503719 g
- Calories 63 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook pasta al dente as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat large deep skillet on medium heat and swirl oil to coat.
- Add garlic along with tomatoes and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Add olives, cooked pasta, parsley and basil (mint) to the skillet with tomatoes; stir to combine.
- Add goat cheese and pine nuts (if using); stir gently.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper to taste if necessary.
- Serve warm.
A Simple Summer Pasta Dish: Penne with Kalamata Olives and Goat Cheese
Summer is my favorite time of year. The days are long, the sun is shining, and the farmers' markets overflow with fresh, seasonal produce. It’s a time for lighter meals, quick recipes, and maximum flavor with minimum effort. This penne pasta dish is the perfect embodiment of summer simplicity. It's a recipe born from those lazy afternoons where I want something delicious, yet I don't want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. It's a testament to how incredible fresh ingredients can shine, requiring minimal effort to create a magnificent dish.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the combination of sweet, sun-ripened tomatoes and salty Kalamata olives. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating a depth of flavor that is simply unparalleled. This sweetness beautifully contrasts with the briny tang of the olives and the creamy, tangy goat cheese. A sprinkle of fresh herbs – I prefer basil, but mint works wonderfully as well – ties everything together, adding a final touch of freshness. And the whole wheat penne provides a hearty, satisfying base for all the deliciousness. The optional addition of pine nuts adds a lovely textural crunch, elevating this simple pasta into something truly special. Seriously, don't skip the pine nuts; they're worth it!
I’ve always believed in the power of simple recipes. Recipes that don't require a degree in culinary arts or a pantry full of obscure ingredients. Recipes that allow even the busiest of individuals to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal. This pasta dish perfectly fits that bill. It's the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel luxurious without feeling overwhelming. It's also extremely versatile – you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or even add some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients.
This recipe is my go-to when I need a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether it's a busy weekday evening or a relaxed weekend lunch, this pasta is always a winner. It's a dish that consistently receives rave reviews from my family and friends. I love how easy it is to adapt to whatever I have available in my fridge or pantry, making it the ultimate versatile meal. The most fulfilling part? Witnessing the joy on my family's faces as they savor each bite. For me, that is the true magic of cooking; the ability to create happiness through food.
Beyond the Recipe: A Celebration of Simple Pleasures
This recipe, though simple, represents so much more than just a meal. It's a symbol of the little joys in life, of appreciating fresh, seasonal ingredients, and of finding contentment in simple pleasures. In a world that often prioritizes complexity and extravagance, it's important to remember the beauty of simplicity. This dish is a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying things in life are the easiest to achieve. It's a testament to the magic that can be created in the kitchen with a few humble ingredients and a little bit of love.
Cooking isn't just about creating a meal; it's about connecting with loved ones, creating memories, and expressing creativity. This recipe is more than just a culinary creation; it's a reflection of those values, a celebration of simple cooking, and a pathway to joyful moments shared with those we hold dear. So next time you're searching for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, remember this simple pasta dish. It's a surefire way to bring a little sunshine into your kitchen and to your heart.
