When it comes to cooking, there’s one ingredient that can elevate a dish from good to great: olive oil. Rich in flavor and packed with health benefits, olive oil is a staple in many cuisines around the world. And when paired with pasta, it’s a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delectable olive oil pasta recipes that will satisfy every palate. From classic combinations like garlic and chili to more adventurous pairings like rosemary and anchovy, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for a quick and easy meal, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary creation.
Garlic and Chili Olive Oil Spaghetti
This recipe combines the classic flavors of garlic and olive oil with a spicy kick from chili flakes, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful spaghetti dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup garlic and chili olive oil (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the garlic and chili olive oil over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the garlic and chili olive oil mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Zest and Olive Oil Linguine
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Brightened with the citrusy flavor of lemon zest, this recipe showcases the simplicity of olive oil-based cooking.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest and olive oil.
3. Add garlic to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Drain linguine and add it to the bowl with the lemon-oil mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fresh Herb and Olive Oil Fettuccine
Fresh Herb and Olive Oil Fettuccine Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this light and refreshing recipe that showcases the flavors of fresh herbs and rich olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, and dill)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the olive oil and fresh herbs. Heat over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or until the herbs are fragrant and slightly wilted.
3. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the herb mixture. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Parmesan Pappardelle
This Italian-inspired recipe is a classic combination of flavors, featuring tender pappardelle pasta tossed with a rich olive oil sauce and topped with the salty goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pappardelle pasta
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add butter and let it melt.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the olive oil mixture.
4. Toss cooked pappardelle pasta in the olive oil mixture until well coated.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Basil Olive Oil Penne
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato and basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Olive Oil and Garlic Bucatini
This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of bucatini pasta with the bold flavors of spicy olive oil and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) bucatini pasta
– 1/4 cup (60ml) spicy olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the spicy olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked bucatini pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic-infused oil. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Roasted Garlic Spaghetti
This recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the richness of roasted garlic and olive oil, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and roasted garlic.
6. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt to taste.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Capers and Olive Oil Tagliatelle
This recipe combines the simplicity of homemade pasta with the brightness of fresh capers and olive oil, creating a light yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp (5mL) salt
– 1/4 cup (60mL) extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp (30mL) chopped fresh capers
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for at least 30 minutes.
4. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces and roll out each piece to desired thickness (about 1/16 inch).
5. Cook tagliatelle in boiling, salted water for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
6. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, capers, and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add cooked tagliatelle to the skillet and toss with the caper and olive oil mixture.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Olive Oil and Mushroom Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of olive oil with the earthiness of mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, and shiitake work well), sliced
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Artichoke Farfalle
This recipe combines the delicate flavors of artichokes with the richness of olive oil, all wrapped up in a bed of farfalle pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the farfalle according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked farfalle with the artichoke mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary and Olive Oil Rigatoni
This Italian-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of rosemary and olive oil with the comforting warmth of rigatoni pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tsp)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped rosemary and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to combine with the rosemary-infused oil. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil and Anchovy Linguine
This recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of a well-made linguine dish, with the salty flavor of anchovies perfectly balanced by the richness of olive oil. This classic Italian combination is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 6-8 anchovy fillets, rinsed and patted dry
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add anchovy fillets and cook, stirring occasionally, until they dissolve into the oil (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet, then add cooked linguine pasta. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sundried Tomato and Olive Oil Fusilli
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy’s Mediterranean coast with the simplicity of a classic pasta dish. Sundried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness, while olive oil brings richness and depth to this quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Lemon Garlic Pasta
A bright and zesty pasta dish that combines the richness of olive oil with the tanginess of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil and Spinach Angel Hair
Experience the simplicity of a classic Italian dish with this quick and flavorful recipe. Fresh spinach, garlic, and lemon-infused olive oil bring out the best in angel hair pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz angel hair pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 3 tbsp lemon-infused olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat lemon-infused olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Add cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet, tossing with spinach mixture and reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Bell Pepper and Olive Oil Spaghetti
Roasted Bell Pepper and Olive Oil Spaghetti
A flavorful and healthy twist on classic spaghetti, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the savory richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 large bell peppers, any color
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the bell peppers in half, remove seeds and membranes, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. Let them cool slightly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add roasted bell peppers and stir to combine.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the bell pepper mixture, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Olive Oil and Pine Nut Orzo
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of pine nuts with the richness of olive oil, all wrapped up in a bowl of creamy orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the toasted pine nuts and cooked orzo to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Olive and Olive Oil Pasta
This recipe showcases the rich flavors of black olives and olive oil, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying pasta dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup black olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add black olives to the pan and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the pan with the black olive mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 18 delectable olive oil recipes! From classic combinations like garlic and chili to unique flavor profiles like rosemary and anchovy, there’s something for every palate. Try making spaghetti with roasted garlic and olive oil, or penne with cherry tomatoes and basil. For a spicy kick, opt for bucatini with spicy olive oil and garlic. Or go Mediterranean with linguine and lemon zest, or farfalle with artichoke and olive oil. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to become new favorites!