Dirty Martini Pasta Fusion

As seen in: Fresh, Bright, and West Coast Cool

Dirty Martini Pasta brings the essence of a classic cocktail to the dinner table, combining creamy sauce, gin, olive brine, and green olives for an unforgettable twist. Linguine or spaghetti is tossed in a silky, savory sauce layered with zesty lemon and Parmesan, all balanced by fresh parsley and extra olives on top. Enjoy as a main course that stands out for its fusion of bold, briny notes and Italian comfort, perfect for those eager to try something new. For a vegetarian adaptation, simply use plant-based cream, cheese, and butter. Pair with dry white wine or a classic martini for the full experience.

A woman wearing an apron and smiling.
Created By Clara
Last modified on Sun, 25 May 2025 07:43:43 GMT
A plate of pasta with olives and cheese. Save This
A plate of pasta with olives and cheese. | zetluna.com

Dirty Martini Pasta is your ticket to turning a classic cocktail into pasta night adventure The creamy sauce carries the unmistakable punch of gin and olive brine and the burst of briny green olives makes each bite stand out If you are a fan of martinis or just love a savory unique pasta dish this recipe delivers on both flavor and fun

Ingredients

  • Linguine or spaghetti 400 grams: Go with high quality dried Italian pasta for the best texture
  • Salt: For flavoring pasta water and ensuring your noodles taste great all the way through
  • Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce its rich creamy backbone always taste your butter before using it
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Adds depth and helps marry the sauce together pick a fruity or mild variety
  • Garlic fresh cloves: Minced to release all that bold aroma choose firm bulbs with tight skin
  • Gin: For that true Dirty Martini flavor clean highquality gin makes a big difference avoid overly herbal types
  • Olive brine: The secret triple threat savory depth and that martini tang
  • Heavy cream: Brings everything together for a velvety sauce go for fullfat for the creamiest results
  • Parmesan cheese freshly grated: The nutty sharp hit balances the briny sauce ParmigianoReggiano is best
  • Green olives: Look for firm ones packed in brine and slice yourself for better texture
  • Zest of one lemon: For brightness Always zest before juicing and use unwaxed for pure flavor
  • Black pepper: Freshly ground over preground adds a gentle heat cooks into the sauce beautifully
  • Flatleaf parsley chopped: Adds a fresh finishing touch choose bright green crisp leaves
  • Extra olives and lemon zest: For garnish A final pop of color and flavor

StepbyStep Instructions

Boil the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous handful of salt Bring to a rolling boil then drop in your pasta Stir so it does not stick Cook until just al dente following the package timing and remember to save half a cup of pasta water before draining
Build the Flavor Base:
As the pasta cooks heat up the butter and olive oil together in a wide skillet over medium heat Toss in the garlic and stir constantly for about one minute until the fragrance fills your kitchen but before the garlic turns golden This step is everything for a great sauce
Deglaze With Gin:
Pour gin into the skillet Stand back as it will sizzle Let it bubble away for about one minute to cook off sharp alcohol notes but keep the botanical flavors then add the olive brine and repeat the simmering for a full minute
Simmer the Sauce:
Pour cream into the pan Lower the heat so the mixture gently simmers not hard boils Stir occasionally for two to three minutes Cream should look slightly thickened at this point
Finish the Sauce:
Toss in the sliced olives lemon zest and all the grated Parmesan Stir until the cheese melts and you have a silky smooth sauce Season generously with coarse black pepper
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta straight into your skillet If the sauce feels thick start splashing in reserved pasta water about a tablespoon at a time Continue tossing until the noodles are evenly coated and glossy
Garnish and Serve:
Heap the finished pasta into bowls Scatter with chopped parsley sliced green olives and more lemon zest if you want brightness Serve straight away for the best texture
A fork is being used to eat spaghetti with a green olive on top. Save This
A fork is being used to eat spaghetti with a green olive on top. | zetluna.com

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to forty eight hours If the sauce thickens just splash a bit of milk or cream when reheating over low heat Avoid microwaving for too long as it can curdle the cream sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have linguine spaghetti or even penne works well For dairyfree and vegan options choose vegan butter and unsweetened plant cream plus your favorite plantbased parmesan Swap gin for highquality vodka for a different flavor or skip the alcohol if preferred

Serving Suggestions

Dirty Martini Pasta loves simple green salads especially those dressed with sharp vinaigrettes For true cocktail hour flair serve with a crisp dry white wine or even a tiny martini on the side Garlic bread also makes a great side

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe is a playful nod to the Italian American love for pasta and the sophisticated ritual of pre dinner cocktails Martini culture has roots in classic Hollywood glamour and Italian trattorias so blending these worlds creates a dish with instant party vibes

A bowl of pasta with olives and lemon. Save This
A bowl of pasta with olives and lemon. | zetluna.com

Common Questions

→ What kind of pasta works best for this dish?

Linguine or spaghetti are both excellent choices, allowing the sauce to coat each strand beautifully.

→ Can I substitute the gin?

If you prefer not to use gin, you can substitute with dry white wine or leave it out entirely for a less robust flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter, cream, and cheese to create a vegan-friendly version without losing its creamy texture.

→ What pairs well with this pasta?

This pasta is complemented by dry white wine or a classic martini, and can be served with a crisp green salad.

→ How do I enhance the sauce’s flavor?

For extra depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash more gin just before serving.

Dirty Martini Pasta Fusion

Creamy pasta with gin, olive brine, and green olives, blending bold flavors for adventurous taste.

Preparation Time
10 Time in Minutes
Cooking Duration
20 Time in Minutes
Overall Time
30 Time in Minutes
Created By: Clara


Skill Level: Moderate

Style: Fusion / Italian-Inspired

Output: 4 Serves

Diet Preferences: Plant-Based

What You Need

→ Pasta

01 400 g (14 oz) linguine or spaghetti
02 Salt, for pasta water

→ Sauce

03 2 tbsp unsalted butter
04 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
05 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
06 60 ml (¼ cup) gin
07 60 ml (¼ cup) olive brine (from jarred green olives)
08 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
09 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
10 80 g (½ cup) green olives, pitted and sliced
11 Zest of 1 lemon
12 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

13 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
14 Extra green olives, sliced
15 Additional lemon zest (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 02

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 03

Pour in the gin and let it simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly. Add the olive brine and simmer another minute.

Step 04

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 05

Mix in the sliced green olives, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with black pepper.

Step 06

Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water little by little until the sauce is silky and clings to the noodles.

Step 07

Serve immediately, topped with chopped parsley, extra green olives, and more lemon zest if desired.

Additional Notes

  1. For a vegan version, substitute plant-based cream and cheese, and use vegan butter.
  2. For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  3. Pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine or a classic martini.
  4. If you prefer a stronger gin flavor, add a splash more at the end and toss quickly before serving.

Essential Tools

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Zester or microplane
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for allergens, and don’t forget to consult your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Milk (butter, cream, Parmesan)
  • Wheat (pasta)
  • Sulfites (gin, olives)

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Nutritional facts should only be used as a general guide, not as medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 580
  • Fats: 28 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 62 grams
  • Proteins: 15 grams