Create Your Own Pasta Recipe
You pick, we perfect. Customize your pasta with fresh Italian ingredients.
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Ingredients
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Pasta Base
Sauce Options
Protein Options
Vegetable Options
Seasoning Options
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add your chosen pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing Sauce
- 3
Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 4
Add Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- 5
Add Cream
If using, add heavy cream to the sauce and stir until well combined.
- 6
Add Fresh Basil
Stir in the chopped basil and let simmer for another 2 minutes.
Cooking Protein
- 7
Cook Chicken/Shrimp/Tofu
In a separate pan, cook your chosen protein over medium heat until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes for chicken and shrimp, and 3-5 minutes for tofu.
Combining Ingredients
- 8
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly.
- 9
Add Protein and Vegetables
Stir in the cooked protein and your choice of vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serving
- 10
Plate and Garnish
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs to taste.





