Plain Ol' Pasta
Good Eats: The Early Years page 62 Good Eats "Pantry Raid I: Use Your Noodle" This cooked pasta is also good in pasta salad (I'm a big fan), but contrary to most recipes, I prefer to dress the pasta while it's hot and still a bit porous, then add the bits and pieces after it cools.
Good Eats: The Early Years page 62 Good Eats "Pantry Raid I: Use Your Noodle" This cooked pasta is also good in pasta salad (I'm a big fan), but contrary to most recipes, I prefer to dress the pasta while it's hot and still a bit porous, then add the bits and pieces after it cools.
- Carbohydrate 86.50556825 g
- Cholesterol 6.307875 mg
- Fat 18.75087725 g
- Fiber 4.29787007014155 g
- Protein 18.371264 g
- Saturated Fat 3.498552575 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (143g)
- Sodium 1203.9376 mg
- Sugar 82.2076981798584 g
- Trans Fat 2.04181005 g
- Calories 587 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring 1 gallon of water to a boil in a 5-quart pot on the stove with the lid on and salt added.
- Add pasta; if using long noodles, fan them out and gently bend them down after 30 seconds using tongs or a wooden spoon. Don't break them.
- Cover, reduce heat to medium-high, and return to a rolling boil. Remove the lid and stir once a minute.
- After five minutes, begin tasting. Properly cooked pasta should offer some resistance.
- Scoop out a cup of cooking water. Drain the pasta in a colander; do not rinse.
- In a large bowl, combine oil and minced garlic (optional). Add the pasta and toss with tongs to coat.
- Serve with desired additions.
Plain Ol' Pasta: A Simple Delight
As a busy working mom, I’m always looking for quick and easy meals that don't sacrifice flavor. This Plain Ol’ Pasta recipe is my go-to when I need a satisfying and delicious dinner on the table in a flash. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's the perfect canvas for whatever ingredients I have on hand, transforming a basic pantry staple into a culinary masterpiece.
I discovered this recipe years ago in a well-worn cookbook, and it's become a staple in my family's diet. What initially drew me to it was its adaptability. The recipe itself is incredibly straightforward – cook the pasta perfectly al dente, toss it with a little olive oil and garlic (optional), and then let your creativity run wild with the additions. One night, it might be a vibrant medley of sun-dried tomatoes, walnuts, and sharp Parmesan cheese. The next, I might opt for a more rustic combination of sautéed greens, bacon, and a creamy Gorgonzola. The possibilities are truly endless.
The key to this recipe's success is the perfectly cooked pasta. It needs to be al dente, with a slight resistance when you bite into it. Overcooked pasta is mushy and sad. I prefer to dress the pasta while it's still hot, while its pores are open to absorb the flavours of the olive oil and any other aromatics I add. Then, I allow it to cool slightly before adding the more delicate ingredients. This prevents them from wilting or becoming overly soft.
Beyond the ease of preparation, what I truly appreciate about this recipe is its ability to adapt to different dietary needs and preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or other meat additions. Want something lighter? Reduce the amount of cheese or oil. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with a variety of cheeses, herbs, and vegetables.
This Plain Ol’ Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients used creatively. It's a dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh, seasonal produce and the joy of culinary experimentation. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. It's quick, easy, adaptable and delicious - what more could you ask for?
Variations:
- Mediterranean Delight: Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Indulgence: Toss with a little heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Hearty Harvest: Roasted butternut squash, toasted pumpkin seeds, and sage.
- Simple Elegance: A simple drizzle of olive oil, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
The possibilities are as varied as your imagination, making this Plain Ol' Pasta a truly versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion. Try it out, and I know you’ll agree.
