Pasta dishes are an ideal choice for those pressed for time in the kitchen, offering a variety of flavors and textures that can be prepared quickly. In this article, we’ll explore seven simple pasta recipes perfect for busy cooks, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal even on the most hectic evenings.
Recipe 1: Garlic Butter Spaghetti
One of the simplest and quickest pasta dishes you can make involves nothing more than spaghetti, garlic, butter, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Boil spaghetti according to package instructions.
- In a pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, add 3 minced garlic cloves, and cook until fragrant.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the garlic butter, season with salt and pepper, and top with grated parmesan.
🍜 Note: For an extra touch, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Recipe 2: Pesto Primavera
If you have some fresh vegetables lying around, a simple pesto primavera can transform them into a vibrant dish.
- Cook pasta (fusilli or penne works well) and reserve some pasta water.
- Sauté vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- Toss the pasta with store-bought or homemade pesto, adding the vegetables and a splash of pasta water to meld the flavors.
Recipe 3: Lemon Shrimp Pasta
This recipe is a burst of fresh flavors with the zesty kick of lemon paired with succulent shrimp.
- Cook linguine or spaghetti to al dente.
- Sautee shrimp in olive oil with garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Add butter for a creamier sauce.
- Combine with pasta, and finish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for garnish.
Recipe 4: One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
Here’s a dish where you can cook everything in one pot, reducing the time spent on clean-up.
- Place spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and water in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer until the pasta is cooked, and the tomatoes have burst creating a sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper, stir in cheese or nutritional yeast for those avoiding dairy.
Recipe 5: Alfredo with Smoked Salmon
Turn the classic Alfredo into something special with the addition of smoked salmon.
- Cook fettuccine pasta and set aside.
- Whip up a simple Alfredo sauce with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, then fold in chunks of smoked salmon.
- Mix with pasta, adjust seasoning, and serve with a lemon wedge.
Recipe 6: Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Marry the flavors of chicken parmesan with pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Bread and bake chicken cutlets, smother with marinara sauce and mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
- Boil pasta like rigatoni or ziti, and combine with the sauce from the chicken, adding more if necessary.
- Slice the chicken and serve atop the pasta with a sprinkle of parmesan.
Recipe 7: Broccoli and Olive Oil Spaghetti
Keep it simple with this healthy, vibrant pasta dish.
- Steam broccoli florets until just tender.
- Cook spaghetti, drain, and return to the pot with olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Add broccoli, toss everything together, and serve immediately.
🍝 Note: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or pasta water to coat the spaghetti better.
There you have it—seven quick pasta recipes that not only save you time but also deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for something simple and classic or a bit more elaborate, these dishes prove that pasta is the ultimate go-to for any busy cook.
How can I make pasta dishes more nutritious?
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To boost the nutritional content, incorporate vegetables like spinach, peppers, or zucchini, and lean proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Whole grain or veggie-based pastas also add nutrients.
What are some good alternatives for cream in Alfredo?
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Consider using cauliflower purée, Greek yogurt, cashew cream, or a blend of cornstarch with broth for a dairy-free or lighter alternative to traditional cream.
How do I prevent pasta from sticking?
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To avoid sticky pasta, use a large pot with plenty of boiling, salted water, stir occasionally, and don’t overcrowd the pot. Also, avoid rinsing pasta after cooking to preserve the starch, which helps the sauce adhere better.
