Dirty Goat Cheese Martini Pasta

What’s better than a dirty martini with goat cheese-stuffed olives as a garnish? Well, that same thing but in pasta form, obviously. Dirty martini pasta went viral a little while ago, but it looked like it was missing something. It was just noodles, gin, and some herbs… There is nothing wrong with that, but I felt like I could elevate it. Not to brag, but I definitely did!

This pasta is genuinely simple, coming together in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with briny, piney flavors and a tangy goat cheese sauce that brings it all together. This vegetarian main dish will definitely be on your weekly rotation.

Tip: Want to add a protein? Try white beans to keep this vegetarian, or chicken breasts cooked to your liking would be good as well. Happy cooking!

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pappardelle pasta (or any wide noodle)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large shallot (or 2 small), finely minced

• 2 large garlic cloves (or 4 small), finely minced

• 1 cup pimento-stuffed olives, roughly chopped

• 1/4 cup olive brine

• 1/3 cup gin (or vodka)

• juice of 1 lemon

• 5 oz goat cheese (chevre)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped finely

• 1/2 tsp kosher salt (this dish is already salty, so taste to your preferences)

• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Method:

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Salt the water. Cook your pappardelle according to package directions.

2. Place the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shallots and sauté for 2 minutes or until translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the garlic and sauté rapidly for 1 minute.

4. Add the olives and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

5. Add the olive brine, gin, and lemon juice and stir to combine. Continue stirring until the mixture is reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Break the goat cheese into smaller pieces and place that in the skillet along with the heavy cream. Stir until the goat cheese is melted, using your cooking utensil to help break it up if needed.

7. Add the parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Cut the heat.

8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve right away and enjoy!