Are you craving a sophisticated yet surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This Dirty Martini Pasta recipe brings the bold, briny flavors of a classic cocktail to your plate in a way you never thought possible. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and surprisingly healthy, too. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this unique and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves two hungry adults, or three with a side salad. Feel free to double or triple it depending on your needs.
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry vermouth
- 1/4 cup olive brine (from a jar of olives)
- 1/4 cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice for extra brightness
Instructions:
This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Create the sauce: Pour in the vermouth and olive brine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid reduces slightly. Stir in the olives and capers.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Finish and serve: Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Dirty Martini Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is crucial for this recipe; it holds its shape better and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the quality of the olives, capers, and vermouth. Invest in good ingredients for the best results.
- Adjust the saltiness: The olives and capers can be salty, so taste the sauce before adding more salt.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spicy Dirty Martini Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Creamy Dirty Martini Pasta: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Dirty Martini Pasta: Omit the meat additions if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Dirty Martini Pasta recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a sophisticated meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's the perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy!