Bring large pot of water to boil. Cook penne in boiling water according to package instructions, usually about 12 minutes, with a teaspoon of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together. When penne is finished, drain off excess water in strainer.
Saute onion and garlic in 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
When onion is nearly clear, add tomatoes, olives, and bell pepper. I usually save out a few cherry tomatoes to throw in just before taking the sauce off of the stove, in order to maintain a fresh color to the sauce.
When tomatoes are cooked, and beginning to form a sauce, add sugar, and salt to taste.
With burner turned off, add torn basil leaves to mixture, letting them wilt slightly prior to serving over cooked penne.
Notes
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.