We often rely on recipe blogs and books to find inspiration for meals. Even if you're new to cooking, recipes provide an easy guide. Yet, complex recipes can demand a lengthy list of ingredients and steps. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's time to return to the basics.
Pasta is one of the simplest dishes to prepare, ideal for those living in spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in Alpharetta, GA. All it requires is boiling pasta and preparing a sauce of your choice. To simplify your cooking process further, we've compiled some of the easiest pasta recipes that only call for pantry staples.
Buttered Noodles
Buttered Noodles couldn't be more straightforward. As the name suggests, it's centered around butter and pasta, along with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. Begin by cooking the pasta in a pot of generously salted boiling water. Once it's ready, drain the water. Incorporate 6 tablespoons of butter and 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is well coated. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Aglio Olio
Aglio Olio, though simple, delivers a robust flavor, thanks to its garlic and chili flakes. To make it, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large skillet, then add 6 thinly slivered garlic cloves. Stir the garlic until it turns golden brown, and then sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste, followed by 8 oz of cooked spaghetti. Toss the spaghetti in the fragrant olive oil mixture, finishing with some Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Pasta al Limone
If you enjoy a zesty twist in creamy pasta, Pasta al Limone is a must-try. Start by mixing the zest of one lemon with 3/4 cup of heavy cream in a pot. Heat until the mixture simmers, then incorporate 6 tablespoons of butter one at a time. Whisk until you achieve a creamy consistency, then add 12 oz of cooked spaghetti to the sauce. Finish with lemon juice and salt to taste.
Pesto Pasta
The quick version of pesto pasta requires a jar of pesto. After boiling your pasta, reserve some pasta water and mix it with the store-bought pesto sauce. Stir over heat to thin the pesto. Mix in the cooked pasta until coated thoroughly, seasoning with salt, pepper, or crushed chili flakes to taste. Top with crushed pine nuts for an enhanced nutty flavor.
Canned Tuna Pasta
Pasta may be synonymous with carbs, but it's easy to add protein. Canned tuna is rich in protein and complements pasta wonderfully. One variation uses olive oil as its base. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook minced garlic until fragrant. Mix in the drained tuna. Add chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
These dishes are perfect for preparing in bulk, enabling you to enjoy them throughout the week. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they'll last up to five days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Why Choose Windward Place for Your Next Alpharetta Home?
Located at 3080 Market Place, Windward Place Apartments offers a blend of comfort and style, perfect for those seeking spacious units with convenient amenities. Playful community features like a resort-style swimming pool and well-maintained tennis courts ensure your lifestyle here is vibrant and exciting. Choose from our various floor plans, including the 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in Alpharetta, GA, to find your ideal living space. Visit Windward Place for a community that complements your lifestyle.