500 grams penne pasta 1 pound cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1/3 cup basil flavored olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 cup black olives, pitted 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped salt and pepper, to taste parmesan cheese (optional), to serve

In a microwave proof dish, place tomatoes, garlic and olive oil and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook pasta and drain.

After tomato mixture has marinated add onion and olives to dish, cover with plastic wrap and microwave on High for 2 minutes. Add vinegar and fresh basil and toss with hot pasta.

Season with salt and pepper. Serve with parmesan, if desired.