Recipes With Pasta
Pasta is the ultimate weeknight hero. It cooks in under 15 minutes, works with almost any ingredient in your fridge, and satisfies every member of the household.
Key points
- Use 1 litre of water per 100g of pasta — more water means less sticking.
- Salt the pasta water generously — it should taste like the sea.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; the starch helps sauces cling.
- Stop cooking pasta 1 minute before the packet says — it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Never rinse cooked pasta unless you are making a cold salad.
Related pages
FAQ
How long does cooked pasta last in the fridge?
Cooked pasta lasts 3–5 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Toss with a little olive oil before storing to prevent clumping.
What goes well with pasta?
Pasta works with chicken, ground beef, shrimp, tomatoes, garlic, cream, spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and cheese. Almost any fridge leftover can become a pasta sauce.
Can I freeze cooked pasta?
Yes — freeze plain cooked pasta for up to 2 months. Slightly undercook it before freezing so it does not go mushy when reheated.
What is the easiest pasta dish for beginners?
Aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil pasta) needs only 5 ingredients and takes 15 minutes. Cacio e pepe and spaghetti with canned tomatoes are equally simple and satisfying.