Lunch Size Pastas Recipe
We invite you to get creative. Build your own pasta dish by choosing a pasta and sauce of your choice.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Sauces
Proteins (optional)
Vegetables (optional)
Cheese (optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-12 minutes.
- 2
Drain the Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta as you want the starch to help the sauce adhere.
Preparing the Sauce
- 3
Heat the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat your choice of sauce (marinara, alfredo, or pesto) over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
- 4
Add Optional Ingredients
If you choose to include proteins (grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu) or vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini), add them to the sauce once it is heated through. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is warmed and combined.
Combining the Dish
- 5
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- 6
Add Cheese (optional)
If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and stir to combine.
Serving
- 7
Plate the Pasta
Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates. You can garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- 8
Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious, customized pasta dish!