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Garden Fresh Herb, Olive, and Parmesan Pasta with Pistachio Breadcrumbs

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A bright and savory pasta dish featuring fresh herbs, briny olives, and Parmesan cheese, finished with crunchy pistachio breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta of choice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, oregano), chopped
  • 1/2 cup green or black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/3 cup pistachios, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (for breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add sliced olives and cook for 2–3 minutes to enhance their flavor.
  4. In a separate pan, toast breadcrumbs and chopped pistachios with butter or olive oil until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the pan with garlic and olives.
  6. Stir in fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
  7. Toss everything until evenly coated and heated through.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
  9. Serve immediately, topped with pistachio breadcrumbs.

Notes

  • Use pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or fusilli for best results.
  • Reserve pasta water to keep the dish moist and well coated.
  • Prepare pistachio breadcrumbs ahead and store in an airtight container for a few days.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra freshness.
  • Include grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
  • Swap pistachios with almonds or walnuts if desired.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and keep breadcrumbs separate for crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/garden-fresh-herb-olive-and-parmesan-pasta-with-pistachio-breadcrumbs/