Winter Herb Pasta
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This aromatic winter herb pasta is a comforting vegetarian dish that celebrates the robust flavours of seasonal greenery. By infusing high-quality olive oil with a trio of woody herbs—sage, rosemary, and thyme—you create a sophisticated sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of bucatini. The addition of fresh parsley brings a vibrant lift to the finish, ensuring the dish feels light despite its warming, savoury profile.
Ideal for a quick weeknight supper or a relaxed weekend lunch, this recipe relies on a few high-quality larder staples and fresh herbs. The secret to its satisfying texture lies in the homemade garlic breadcrumbs, which provide a delightful crunch against the tender pasta. Serve this herb-rich bowl on its own or alongside a crisp green salad for a simple yet elegant homemade meal.
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Ingredients for Winter Herb Pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
3 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
350ml coarse fresh bread crumbs (preferably from a baguette)
450g dried bucatini or spaghetti
2 teaspoons chopped sage
2 teaspoons chopped rosemary
2 teaspoons chopped thyme
1 cup chopped parsley
How to make Winter Herb Pasta
Heat butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until foam subsides. Cook garlic, stirring, until fragrant and pale golden. Add bread crumbs and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, reserving skillet.
Meanwhile, cook bucatini in a pasta pot of boiling salted water (3 tablespoons salt for 5.7L water) until al dente. Reserve 240ml cooking water, then drain.
Heat remaining 60ml oil in skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then cook sage, rosemary, and thyme, stirring, 2 minutes.
Add pasta, 1/2 cup reserved water, and parsley and toss well. Add more water to moisten if necessary. Serve sprinkled with bread crumbs.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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