pasta with Kalamata olives and artichokes

Rigatoni with Artichokes, Kalamata Olives and Herbs


An easy pasta dish that calls for one of Greeceโ€™s iconic products, the Kalamata oliveโ€ฆperfect for Lent, vegans, and a quick mid-week meal. To find authentic Greek Kalamata olives, olive oil and herbs, go to my online store here.

Ingredients

  • Makes 4 โ€“ 6 servings
  • 6 tbsp. extra virgin Greek olive oil
  • 1 leek trimmed and cut into thin rings
  • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 2 cups good quality canned artichoke hearts in olive oil drained
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • Pinch of Greek hot pepper flakes boukovo or cayenne
  • 3 tbsp. snipped fresh dill or finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb. rigatoni or pennes preferably whole wheat

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and cook the leeks, stirring occasionally, until lightly caramelized, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic and stir for a minute, to soften.
  2. Coarsely chop or halve the drained artichoke hearts.
  3. Cook the pasta in ample salted water until al dente. Drain and place back in the pot. Toss with remaining 4 tbsp. of olive oil, the leek-garlic mixture, the artichokes, olives, herbs, cayenne and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

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