Pasta with Starch Sauce
A simple yet flavorful dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1-2 tablespoons 1-2 tablespoons of salt, to taste Essential for flavoring the pasta.
- Enough water to cover the pasta in a pot
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional) Add for flavor.
- 1-2 cups 1-2 cups of vegetables or protein (spinach, bell peppers, chicken, or shrimp, optional) Customize according to preference.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional) For added creaminess and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, ensuring there's enough water to fully submerge your pasta.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add salt to enhance the flavor of your pasta.
- Carefully add the pasta to the boiling water, cooking it according to the package instructions (usually 8 to 12 minutes) until it reaches al dente.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy cooking water.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, avoiding rinsing to keep the starch.
Cooking
- In a new pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. If using garlic, add it and sauté until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes.
- If adding vegetables or protein, toss them into the pan and sauté until cooked through and tender, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce, adjusting the consistency to your liking.
- Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat it thoroughly with the sauce.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve warm with optional garnishes like fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
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Notes
Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or freeze for 1-2 months. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil for creaminess. Variations include adding cream, herbs, or changing the protein source.