During my transition to a plant-based diet, it was critical for me to have a “go-to” meal that I truly enjoyed, so I would not be tempted to go back to old favorite dishes that included animal ingredients. So, I created Smashed Olive Pasta!
1. Boil water in a large pot, add pasta, stir occasionally.
2. Wash parsley and arugula (or other green of your choice).
3. Mince garlic and chop parsley.
4. Smash olives, remove pits and lightly chop.
5. When the pasta is cooked, drain and set aside.
6. Heat pan, add a little water and red chili flakes, parsley, garlic, and olives. Saute for about 2-3 minutes making sure to keep stirring – do not let the garlic burn.
7. Add cooked pasta and toss.
8. Turn heat off.
9. Add arugula (the arugula will wilt from the heat of the pasta).