Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! Olive oil pasta dishes are a staple in many cuisines, and when combined with fresh herbs, they become truly divine. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 creamy olive oil pasta recipes that highlight the simplicity and elegance of combining these two ingredients. From classic combinations like garlic and lemon to more adventurous pairings such as sun-dried tomatoes and olives, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, our collection of creamy olive oil pasta recipes has something for everyone. So go ahead and get creative with your favorite herbs and ingredients – we can’t wait to see what delicious creations you come up with!
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti with Lemon Zest
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon zest. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, zested
– Salt and black 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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and golden brown.
3. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic and olive oil mixture.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a flavor boost from roasted cherry tomatoes and a rich, creamy olive oil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp. olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp. olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss with roasted cherry tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Fresh Basil and Parmesan
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, featuring the perfect balance of rich olive oil, bright basil, and nutty Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and 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 chopped basil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the basil mixture.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the basil-infused olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Olive Oil Pasta with Chili Flakes and Garlic
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and spicy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 tsp. chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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 cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add chili flakes and stir for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic-chili mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Sautéed Mushrooms and Thyme
Experience the simplicity and elegance of a classic Italian dish with this recipe, featuring olive oil pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and thyme.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. spaghetti
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 lb. mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 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. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add garlic and thyme; sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Olive Oil Pasta with Asparagus and Peas
Brighten up your pasta dish with the sunny flavors of lemon, olive oil, asparagus, and peas. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add peas, garlic, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the asparagus mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, infused with the warmth of sun-dried tomatoes and the brininess of Kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine with the olive oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Olive Oil Pasta with Spinach and Pine Nuts
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the creaminess of olive oil, the earthiness of spinach, and the crunch of pine nuts. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add pine nuts to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, spinach mixture, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your pasta game with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary, perfectly balanced by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and let it cool slightly. Squeeze the garlic out of its skin into a bowl.
5. Add the rosemary sprigs to the bowl with the roasted garlic and mash together with a fork until well combined.
6. In a large skillet, combine the mashed garlic-rosemary mixture and olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlicky goodness. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Shrimp and Fresh Parsley
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of olive oil, garlic, and shrimp with a hint of freshness from parsley. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of 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 shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and shrimp in the skillet. Toss everything together until coated with olive oil and garlic flavors.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Feta
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a quick summer dinner or lunch. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together by a rich olive oil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 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.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they burst and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, feta cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Caramelized Onions and Sage
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant pasta dish, featuring caramelized onions and fragrant sage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 tbsp. olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and add fresh sage leaves. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse their flavor into the onions.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with caramelized onions and sage.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss again.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Artichokes and Lemon Butter Sauce
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet elegant pasta dish, featuring artichoke hearts, brightened by a zesty lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and softened butter until smooth.
5. Add the lemon butter sauce to the pasta skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers and Capers
Transform pasta into a flavorful and vibrant dish by incorporating the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the tanginess of capers. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Slice roasted red peppers into strips.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, roasted pepper strips, and capers. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Zucchini and Mint
A light and refreshing summer pasta dish that combines the flavors of zucchini, mint, and olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the 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-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
4. Stir in the chopped mint leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, zucchini mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adding more water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
This classic Italian pasta dish is a harmonious balance of savory, salty, and crunchy flavors. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely minced
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until they dissolve into the oil.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the anchovy-infused oil.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and parsley over the pasta. Toss to coat.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Add the breadcrumb mixture to the pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Total time: 20-25 minutes
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 5-7 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Broccoli and Garlic Chips
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of olive oil, the crunch of garlic chips, and the tender sweetness of broccoli. This recipe is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup garlic chips (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the pan with the garlic and broccoli. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Sprinkle the garlic chips on top of the pasta mixture and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Ricotta and Black Pepper
Olive Oil Pasta with Ricotta and Black Pepper: A Simple yet Elegant Italian Dish
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt. Mix well to smooth out any lumps.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the olive oil mixture.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese mixture until well combined. Season with black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Eggplant and Basil
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted eggplant, fresh basil, and rich olive oil to create a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted eggplant slices to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and olive oil.
6. Combine cooked pasta, eggplant mixture, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with White Beans and Kale
A Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish that combines the creaminess of olive oil, the nuttiness of white beans, and the earthy flavor of kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 1/2 cup white beans (cannellini or navy), cooked
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the 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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked white beans and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the kale and bean mixture. Toss to combine, adding more olive oil if needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 creamy olive oil recipes featuring fresh herbs! From classic combinations like garlic and lemon zest to more adventurous pairings like sautéed mushrooms and thyme, there’s something for every taste. Indulge in roasted cherry tomatoes and parmesan or spice things up with chili flakes and garlic. Each recipe showcases the rich flavors of olive oil paired with the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a deliciously well-rounded dish. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a lighter option, these recipes are sure to please!
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