Mediterranean Pasta With Olive Paste

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt + 1 teaspoon, divided
• 6 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta (or spaghetti, such as DeLallo)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 can quartered artichoke hearts (14 ounces), drained
• 1 can whole pitted black olives (6 ounces), drained and halved
• 3 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive paste (or more to taste)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt.
   • Cook the whole wheat angel hair pasta (or spaghetti) according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the garlic and tomatoes:
   • While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the halved grape or cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add artichokes, olives, and olive paste:
   • Add the drained artichoke hearts and black olives to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
   • Stir in the olive paste, and season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine pasta and sauce:
   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the veggie mixture and olive paste sauce.
   • Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Finish with lemon and Parmesan:
   • Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Top with freshly chopped Italian parsley.
   • Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful pasta dish with a rich olive paste twist!