Pantry Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick meal, try this pantry pasta recipe. Start by boiling salted water and cooking 3/4 to 1 pound of pasta until al dente. In olive oil, sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic and your choice of 1 cup of vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. Add a can of beans, then mix in the drained pasta with reserved water, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. For seasonings, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes work great. There are more helpful tips ahead.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal, this pantry pasta recipe is a great choice. It’s quick, taking only about 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. You can customize it easily with whatever ingredients you have on hand. This recipe works for various dietary needs, including gluten-free options.

Here are some reasons to love it:

• Basic Ingredients: Just pasta, olive oil, butter, and garlic.
• Nutritional Benefits: About 220 calories per serving, with low fat and good carbohydrates.
• Versatility: Use different pasta shapes, proteins, vegetables, and herbs, making it an ideal quick and easy meal option.
• No Waste: Use pasta water for a silky sauce.

This recipe makes cooking enjoyable and stress-free.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 3⁄4 to 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced (optional)
– 1 cup vegetables (spinach, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
– 1 can (15 oz) beans (chickpeas, kidney beans, etc.)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, etc.)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste

Cooking Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion (if using) and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Stir in your chosen vegetables and cook until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes. If using canned beans, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

3. Lower the heat and add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in some reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined. Add more pasta water if needed to create a sauce-like consistency.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Remove from heat, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top before serving.

Extra Tips:
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of vegetables, herbs, and proteins based on what you have on hand. Pasta is versatile and can be made with various ingredients, allowing you to create a unique dish each time.

This dish is incredibly forgiving, so don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed the next day, making this a fantastic meal prep option. Enjoy your pantry pasta!

Final Thoughts

Pantry pasta is a wonderful dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can customize your pasta based on what you have on hand. Common pantry items include olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Feel free to enhance your dish by adding non-pantry ingredients like greens, shrimp, or bacon.

For cooking, remember to sauté garlic in olive oil, and reserve pasta water to help thicken your sauce. Additionally, using bold flavors from items like anchovies or capers can elevate your dish. Serve your pasta with a splash of lemon juice and fresh herbs for extra flavor.

With its flexibility and range of options, pantry pasta can be simple or complex, fitting your preferences and available ingredients.

Enjoy exploring the possibilities!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this recipe. Just make certain you adjust the cooking time and follow proper techniques to avoid gummy texture. With the right ingredients, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal!

How Long Does Pantry Pasta Last in the Refrigerator?

Pantry pasta isn’t meant for refrigeration, but if you’ve cooked it, it lasts 3-5 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it, which can extend its life up to 2 months.

Can I Freeze Leftovers of This Dish?

Imagine saving a meal for a rainy day. Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just cook the pasta al dente, oil it lightly, cool completely, and freeze in a single layer for later enjoyment.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add to Pantry Pasta?

You can add a variety of vegetables to your dish! Consider incorporating carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Cherry tomatoes and spinach also enhance flavor, while canned beans boost protein and fiber. Enjoy experimenting!

Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?

About 70% of people prefer quick meals. Yes, this dish’s versatile ingredients and minimal prep make it perfect for meal prep. You can easily customize it and store leftovers for future busy days.