When it comes to a quick, easy, and satisfying meal, few options can beat a classic plate of olive oil pasta. With just a few simple ingredients – including olive oil, garlic, and your choice of protein or vegetables – you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special celebration.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering olive oil pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti and Lemon Olive Oil Pasta with Parmesan, to more adventurous options like Spicy Olive Oil Pasta with Chili Flakes and Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Eggplant, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight. So let’s get started and explore the world of olive oil pasta together!
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti
This classic Italian recipe is a staple for a reason – the combination of savory garlic, rich olive oil, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the garlic-infused oil. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Olive Oil Pasta with Parmesan
Brighten up your pasta game with this zesty and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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.
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 lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the skillet. Toss to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Olive Oil Pasta with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the simplicity of olive oil pasta with a spicy kick from chili flakes. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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 garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the oil mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This simple yet satisfying recipe combines the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes with the richness of olive oil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Add roasted cherry tomatoes and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts
A light and flavorful pasta dish that highlights the simplicity of quality ingredients, this recipe combines the richness of olive oil with the brightness of fresh basil and the crunch of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the chopped basil leaves and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly wilted.
4. Add the toasted pine nuts to the skillet and stir to combine with the basil and oil mixture.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Olive Oil Pasta with Ricotta
This recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the bold flavor of olive oil and the comfort of pasta, making for a satisfying and filling meal. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and creamy dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 medium saucepan, combine ricotta cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the ricotta mixture. Toss until well coated.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Garlic Shrimp
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of olive oil, garlic, and succulent shrimp for a quick and delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering pasta dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 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 sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and garlic shrimp mixture in a large bowl. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Sautéed Mushrooms
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, where rich olive oil and savory mushrooms come together to create a comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water in the skillet. Toss to combine, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Spinach and Feta
This recipe combines the simplicity of olive oil pasta with the richness of spinach, feta, and garlic for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 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 garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with spinach and olive oil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of olive oil with the burst of flavor from sun-dried tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring the salty umami of anchovies balanced by the crunch of breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2-3 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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-low heat. Add chopped anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until melted and fragrant.
3. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with anchovy mixture.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with anchovy sauce.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over pasta and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish, featuring roasted garlic and a blend of aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. spaghetti
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold the foil to create a packet.
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. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the garlic-herb mixture, ensuring even coating.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Zucchini and Lemon Zest
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a summer evening. The combination of zucchini, lemon zest, and olive oil creates a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
– 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 zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Add the garlic and lemon zest to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and zucchini mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Arugula
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for warm weather. With the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, and a drizzle of olive oil, this recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 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-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they burst and release their juices.
3. Stir in arugula leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-arugula mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Capers and Olives
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh capers
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 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 chopped capers and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the caper mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Eggplant
A flavorful and healthy pasta dish that combines the richness of olive oil with the smoky sweetness of roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
6. Toss cooked pasta with roasted eggplant, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
This vibrant pasta dish combines the richness of olive oil with the brightness of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– 1 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the chopped parsley and basil, and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the herb mixture.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta and toss again to coat.
6. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Garlicky Broccoli
Olive Oil Pasta with Garlicky Broccoli: A flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the simplicity of olive oil pasta with the pungency of garlicky broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. spaghetti
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 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 large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti and garlicky broccoli in the skillet. Toss everything together, adding salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with White Beans and Kale
This recipe combines the simplicity of olive oil pasta with the richness of cannellini beans and the earthy flavor of kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 can (15 oz.) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 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 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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cannellini beans and cooked pasta. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Olive Oil Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers
A flavorful and simple pasta dish that combines the richness of olive oil with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sliced red peppers with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
5. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti, roasted red peppers, and garlic in the skillet.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious olive oil pasta recipes! From classic garlic and olive oil spaghetti to more adventurous options like spicy pasta with chili flakes, there’s something for every occasion. Try pairing roasted cherry tomatoes with fresh basil and pine nuts or go bold with anchovies and breadcrumbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for company, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So grab your pasta and get cooking!
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