Can you really cook pasta in the microwave? Absolutely! Whether you need a quick fix at the office or you’re just not in the mood for cooking, this guide has got you covered. Discover everything you need to know to perfectly prepare pasta in the microwave.
Pasta in the Microwave – The Benefits Explained
Sure, nothing beats perfectly al dente pasta cooked in boiling salted water! But there are times when cooking pasta in the microwave is incredibly convenient. One big advantage: You free up space on the stove and don’t have to constantly watch out for boiling over. Plus, you can skip the hassle of cleaning an extra pot – a win for anyone who dreads doing the dishes!
This method is especially handy when you don’t have access to a stove, like at the office, while camping, or during kitchen renovations. The microwave approach is also so simple that even beginners and those who aren’t big fans of cooking can easily manage it.
Cooking Pasta in the Microwave – Your Step-by-Step Guide
Before you start, choosing the right type of pasta is key: Technically, any pasta can be cooked in the microwave. However, short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or cellentani work best since they allow the microwave plate to rotate freely. Here’s how it’s done:
- Prepare the pasta and salt: Place the pasta along with a pinch of salt into a microwave-safe dish.
- Add water: Fill the dish with water until the pasta is covered by at least 1 cm of water.
- Cooking: Cook the pasta uncovered at 800 watts. Follow the cooking time on the package, then add about 4 extra minutes.
- Stir halfway through: Stir the pasta halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Watch out for hot steam: Be careful, as the steam can be very hot!
- Check the doneness: Taste the pasta – if it’s not fully cooked, continue microwaving in short intervals until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Drain and enjoy: Carefully drain the pasta and enjoy your quick and easy meal!
This method is perfect for anyone looking for a fast, hassle-free way to enjoy delicious pasta without needing a stove.
Recipes for Your Microwave Pasta
Pasta ready? Great! Now you can use it in some of our favourite quick recipes. How about trying some easy ham pasta? You’ll only need one extra pan. Or go for this delicious and speedy pasta salad with pesto. If you add the pine nuts without roasting them, you can keep the kitchen completely cool. Simple, quick, and super tasty! Enjoy your meal!