Perfect Pasta in Four Easy Steps

Pasta doesn’t need to be laden with cheese or sauce, or contain ten different ingredients to taste good. Pasta recipes taste best when they’re simple, using just a few ingredients to bring them together. Using Knorr’s Pasta Sides Chicken flavor (Link opens in new window.), here’s a guide to help you create well-balanced, tasty dishes every time. 

ADD A PROTEIN

Whether it’s meat, fish, beans or eggs, protein will give your dish both sustenance and flavor. The beauty of pasta is it works well with any of these. Adding eggplant, like in this Skillet Noodles with Fresh Vegetables recipe gives you a delicious meal that packed with vitamins and minerals. 

Chicken is a lean and healthy meat that works well with any dish! Try this Honey-Dijon Chicken with Noodles recipe – this simple dish is ready in 20 minutes but is loaded with flavor. Simply boil the water then add the ingredients for a wonderful meal for the family! Pair with your favorite veggie! Looking for a dish that’s a bit more exotic? Than you can’t miss with this Indian-Style Tandoori Chicken and Noodles! 

EAT THE RAINBOW

Using fresh ingredients that encompass a range of colors is a good sign that you’re eating a varied diet. Pasta recipes are a great way to make the most of variation, especially when it comes to vegetables. Whether it’s throwing in a handful of cherry tomatoes, like in this Ratatouille Pasta, zucchini, a bell pepper or any of your favorite veggies, it’s easy to add some additional nutrients, while tasting great too!

ADD CRUNCH

Texture keeps things interesting and creates a nice balance of crunch to contrast the al dente pasta and tender protein. First things first, make sure you don’t overcook your pasta! Soggy pasta is never nice, so keep an eye on the packet instructions. Nuts will add crunch and contrast; try toasting them first to release their nutty flavor, then stir through just before serving.

THE FINISHING TOUCH

Swap that extra pinch of salt for a grating of cheese, a twist of black pepper, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkling of fresh chili; these are great ways to add flavor without the extra sodium, and can make a bowl of pasta into something delicious.

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