Pasta with Starch Sauce
A delightful and simple pasta dish highlighting the importance of starchy water to create a creamy sauce, adaptable to available ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work great)
- Water, enough to cover the pasta in a pot For boiling the pasta
- 1-2 tablespoons Salt, to taste For seasoning the pasta water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional), minced Adds flavor
- 1-2 cups Vegetables or protein (optional, such as spinach, bell peppers, chicken, or shrimp) Customize based on preference
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional), grated For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the pasta you plan to cook. Set the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a vigorous boil.
- Once boiling, add in salt and stir to dissolve. This seasons your pasta.
- Add the pasta to the pot and follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8 to 12 minutes.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about a cup of the starchy cooking water using a measuring cup.
- Drain the pasta in a colander but do not rinse.
Making the Sauce
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. If using garlic, add it and sauté until fragrant, about a minute.
- Add the vegetables or proteins to the pan and sauté until cooked through, enhancing the texture and flavor.
- Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously to create the sauce.
Combine and Serve
- Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Serve with grated parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
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Notes
For an extra touch, garnish with olive oil and fresh herbs. Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat with extra water or oil.