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Fresh Tomato-Olive Sauce

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This fresh tomato and olive sauce is a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavours, making it an ideal choice for a light vegan meal. By using ripe plum tomatoes and salty Kalamata olives, the sauce achieves a sophisticated balance of sweetness and acidity without ever touching a hob. The addition of roasted peppers and capers provides a lovely depth, while a generous pour of extra-virgin olive oil creates a silky finish that coats pasta or roasted vegetables beautifully.

As a versatile plant-based option, this no-cook sauce is perfect for effortless summer dining or a quick midweek supper. Allowing the ingredients to marinate at room temperature is the secret to its success, as it lets the garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs infuse thoroughly. Serve it stirred through linguine, or use it as a chunky topping for toasted sourdough to enjoy a healthy, homemade taste of the sunshine.

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Ingredients for Fresh Tomato-Olive Sauce

  • 675g plum tomatoes, cored, cut lengthwise into thin wedges

  • 12 Kalamata olives, pitted, sliced

  • 120ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 120ml diced roasted red or yellow peppers from jar

  • 40g finely chopped red onion

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tablespoons drained capers, coarsely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

How to make Fresh Tomato-Olive Sauce

Combine all ingredients in large bowl; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let stand at room temperature at least 1 hour and up to 2 hours to allow flavours to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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