Mediterranean Orecchiette Pasta with White Beans, Tomatoes, and Olives: A Quick & Delicious Dinner
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner to prepare on a busy night, this Mediterranean Orecchiette Pasta with White Beans, Tomatoes, and Olives is the perfect solution. The creamy white beans add fiber and plant-based protein, making this dish both satisfying and healthy, while the combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and briny Kalamata olives creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
On hectic workdays, especially now that we’re back in school, pasta is my go-to option for a quick and tasty meal that everyone will enjoy. For me, a pasta dinner is also a great way to use up whatever fresh produce and pantry staples I have on hand, making it an easy yet interesting dish without too much effort.
Today’s recipe features orecchiette, also known as “little ears,” a delightful shape that pairs perfectly with the hearty texture of white beans and tomatoes. Combined with peppery arugula and Kalamata olives, this dish brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table.
While I’m a fan of classic red pasta sauces, this white bean pasta offers a rich depth of flavor, and the use of high-quality olive oil and a splash of white wine adds just the right amount of lightness to the sauce.
What is Orecchiette Pasta?
Orecchiette, which means “little ears” in Italian, is a unique round pasta shape that resembles small cups. Originating from southern Italy, particularly the Puglia region, orecchiette is often paired with chopped leafy greens or vegetables. It is frequently used in recipes featuring broccoli rabe or other vegetables, and its distinctive shape is perfect for capturing chunks of beans and tomatoes.
In this recipe, I find the fun shape of orecchiette ideal for holding onto the beans and tomato chunks, creating a satisfying bite. If you can’t find orecchiette, other short pasta shapes with a firm texture, like farfalle or penne, can easily replace it in this recipe.
The Star Ingredient: Pearls Kalamata Olives
One of my favorite ways to add instant Mediterranean flair to any dish is with Pearls Kalamata olives. These olives, grown and packed in sunny California, are picked at the peak of freshness and provide an unmistakable rich, fruity flavor. I love how Pearls Olives protects the planet with their 99% zero-waste facilities, and their commitment to sustainability, including recycling over 2 billion gallons of water.
For this special pasta recipe, their pitted Kalamata olives are the perfect addition, providing a burst of flavor and a firm texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
How to Make Orecchiette Pasta with White Beans, Tomatoes, and Olives
This dish is simple to prepare with just a few easy steps. Start by boiling the pasta, then create the sauce in stages by sautéing garlic and onion, adding herbs and seasonings, and finishing with the addition of white wine, lemon juice, and a bit of pasta water.
- Cook the Pasta
Boil your orecchiette in salted water according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain. - Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 finely chopped onion, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. - Add Liquids & Vegetables
Pour in 1/4 cup of white wine and the juice of half a lemon. Add 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer. Add 1 can of drained and rinsed white beans, and 2 chopped tomatoes (or 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved). Stir, allowing the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly softened. - Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat the orecchiette with the sauce. Stir in a handful of fresh arugula and 1/4 cup of chopped Pearls Kalamata Olives. - Finish & Serve
If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese (omit for a vegan version). Serve immediately, topped with a little extra olive oil for richness and a sprig of fresh oregano for garnish.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Pasta Dish
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Hearty & Satisfying: With white beans and pasta, this meal is both filling and packed with plant-based protein.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, plus the briny olives, brings a rich Mediterranean taste.
- Versatile: Whether served on its own or with a side salad, this dish is adaptable and perfect for a variety of dietary preferences.
This Mediterranean Orecchiette Pasta with White Beans, Tomatoes, and Olives is a simple yet flavorful meal that can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy.