Save A zesty, aromatic pasta dish featuring a vibrant olive tapenade infused with fresh lemon and thyme, tossed with al dente pasta for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
This recipe quickly became a favorite the moment I served it to my family; the fresh lemon and thyme really brighten the dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti or linguine, Salt for boiling
- Tapenade: 200 g (1 cup) pitted Kalamata olives, 50 g (1/3 cup) green olives pitted, 2 tbsp capers drained, 1 small garlic clove, 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme), Zest and juice of 1 lemon, 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese (optional), 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water then drain the pasta.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks prepare the tapenade: In a food processor combine Kalamata olives green olives capers garlic thyme lemon zest lemon juice olive oil and black pepper. Pulse until coarsely chopped (do not over-process mixture should have some texture).
- Step 3:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large bowl. Add the olive tapenade and toss to combine adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy sauce that coats the pasta.
- Step 4:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately garnished with grated Parmesan chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Save Sharing this flavorful pasta at family dinners always brings smiles and compliments.
Required Tools
Large pot colander food processor or blender zester grater knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Parmesan) omit or substitute for dairy-free or vegan Contains olives and capers check for sulfites if sensitive Gluten (pasta) use gluten-free pasta if required Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens if unsure
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 18 g Carbohydrates 51 g Protein 10 g per serving
Save This simple yet vibrant recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal as they hold the olive tapenade sauce well and maintain a perfect al dente texture.
- → Can I prepare the olive tapenade in advance?
Yes, the tapenade can be made a few hours ahead and stored chilled. Bring it to room temperature before tossing with pasta.
- → How does lemon enhance the flavor?
Fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright, zesty note that balances the rich, briny olives and aromatic thyme perfectly.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely, simply omit the Parmesan garnish or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → What are good wine pairings with this dish?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the lemony, herbal flavors and olive tapenade beautifully.