I still remember the first time I cooked this Green Olive Linguine with Broccolini & Breadcrumbs. The aroma filling my kitchen was incredible — briny olives, bright lemon, garlic, and crispy golden breadcrumbs. I couldn’t wait to take the first bite.
What surprised me most was how simple ingredients created such a flavorful dish. After making it several times, it has become one of my favorite weeknight pastas. It’s easy, fresh, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here is everything required to make this delicious pasta:
- 400g linguine — Long pasta works best because it holds the light olive sauce beautifully.
- 2 bunches broccolini, trimmed and chopped — Fresh broccolini keeps its texture and bright color.
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives, roughly chopped — Adds a salty, Mediterranean flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — Fresh garlic gives the dish depth and aroma.
- 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs — Freshly made crumbs toast better than packaged ones.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided — Use good-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- Zest of 1 lemon — Adds brightness and balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional) — For gentle heat.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper — Essential for seasoning.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to serve — Freshly grated melts and tastes better.
Note: Serves 4 people.
Variations
You can easily adjust this recipe:
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
- Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or capers for stronger Mediterranean flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or white beans for extra protein.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot — For boiling pasta and broccolini.
- Colander/strainer — To drain pasta safely.
- Large skillet or frying pan — To prepare sauce and toast breadcrumbs.
- Wooden spoon or spatula — For stirring ingredients gently.
How to Make Green Olive Linguine with Broccolini & Breadcrumbs Recipe?
Prepare the Pasta and Broccolini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package directions. In the final few minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccolini to the same pot. This allows it to become tender while staying bright green. Before draining, reserve about one cup of pasta water to help create the sauce later.
Toast the Breadcrumbs
While the pasta cooks, heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh breadcrumbs and stir frequently. Cook until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, cooking gently until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then add the chopped green olives and cook for another minute to release their flavor.
Combine Everything
Add the drained linguine and broccolini into the skillet with the olive mixture. Toss everything together gently. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to create a silky coating. Stir well so all ingredients blend evenly.
Finish the Dish
Remove the pan from heat. Add lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss again to distribute the seasoning. The lemon zest brightens the entire dish.
Serve Immediately
Transfer the pasta into serving bowls. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the top. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy the contrast of creamy pasta and crunchy topping.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience making this dish, here are some helpful tips:
- I always use fresh breadcrumbs because they create the best crunch.
- I avoid overcooking the broccolini so it stays slightly firm.
- I save extra pasta water — it helps make the sauce smoother.
- I use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese.
- I taste the dish before serving and adjust salt and lemon as needed.
How to Serve Green Olive Linguine with Broccolini & Breadcrumbs?
This pasta looks beautiful when served in shallow bowls. I like to add extra breadcrumbs on top for presentation. A light sprinkle of lemon zest and Parmesan makes it even more appealing. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add color and freshness. Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 500–600
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 70–80g
- Fat: 20–30g
(Nutrition may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish is not ideal for freezing because pasta texture can change after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a small splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this pasta is a favorite in my kitchen:
- Quick and easy — Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Simple ingredients — Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Full of flavor — Combines salty, citrusy, and savory notes.
- Great texture — Soft pasta with crunchy breadcrumbs.
- Versatile — Easy to modify for different diets and preferences.
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful pasta dish that feels special but is simple to prepare, this Green Olive Linguine with Broccolini & Breadcrumbs is a perfect choice. It’s bright, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table.