Last-Minute Home Alone Pasta

I've been on my own the last few days, and last night I had run out of leftovers, couldn't face a can of soup, let alone a trip to grocery store, and dinner was all up to me.  Here's my last-minute, what's-in-the-larder Home Alone Pasta.

Home Alone Pasta

1 3/4 cup dry rotini

2 tablespoons olive oil

2/3 cup halved grape tomatoes

1/4 cup sliced green olives

1/4 cup diced green bell pepper

1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

Fresh ground pepper to taste

1 - 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons pasta water

1/4 - 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese

Heat water for rotini.  While water is heating, chop tomatoes, olives and bell pepper. 

While rotini cooks, heat oil in medium, non-sitck skillet over medium heat.  Cook tomatoes, olives, bell pepper, and seasonings until soft, about 5 minutes. 

Add tomato paste and mix well. 

When pasta is done, before draining, scoop out 2 tablespoons of the water and add to tomato mixture.  Mix well. 

Drain pasta and top with tomato mixture and shredded cheese.

Printable recipe