10 Store-Cupboard Pastas I Make on Autopilot

If you’re a pasta lover with a busy schedule, then this guide is for you. We’re diving into ten quick and easy pasta dishes that you can whip up with ingredients typically found in your kitchen cupboards. Perfect for those hectic weeknights or impromptu meals when you haven’t had a chance to shop.

1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Originating from Naples, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet delicious dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian cuisine. With just a few key ingredients – spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and red chili flakes, this dish is a go-to for a fast, flavor-packed meal.

To prepare, simply sauté minced garlic in olive oil until it’s golden, then add the chili flakes. Toss in cooked spaghetti, garnish with parsley, and you’ve got a hearty meal ready. To add a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle some parmesan cheese or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.

2. Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman dish that stands as a testament to the magic of Italian cuisine. Made with pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and pepper, it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor.

To prepare this dish, you’ll first need to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Then, in a separate pan, mix together the cheese and black pepper with some of the pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Add in the cooked pasta, toss it all together, and voila – Cacio e Pepe. If you can’t find Pecorino Romano, a good quality Parmesan could also work as a substitute.

3. Tuna Pasta

Tuna Pasta is not just delicious but also packed full of protein, making it a nutritious choice. The recipe involves canned tuna, pasta, garlic, olive oil, and optional additions like capers or olives for an extra punch of flavor.

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add the tuna, breaking it up into flakes. Mix in your cooked pasta and finish with a sprinkle of parsley. If you’re in the mood for a twist, try adding some sundried tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon for a tangy kick.

4. Pasta Puttanesca

With its robust flavors and simple ingredients, Pasta Puttanesca is a dish with a vibrant history linked to Naples. It features pasta tossed in a sauce of tomatoes, olives, capers, anchovies, and garlic, delivering a bold and salty flavor.

Prepare the sauce by sautéing garlic and anchovies in olive oil. Then, add tomatoes, olives, and capers, simmering until the sauce thickens. Toss in your cooked pasta, and you’re done. For an added touch of richness, consider finishing the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

5. Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a versatile dish that’s great for using up whatever veggies you have on hand. It typically involves pasta, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, all tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce.

Start by sautéing your chosen vegetables in olive oil, then add garlic and cook until aromatic. Add cooked pasta to the pan with a bit of pasta water, tossing to combine. To add extra flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese.

6. Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara is a traditional Italian dish that’s rich and indulgent. It involves pasta, eggs, cheese, and pancetta or guanciale (Italian cured meat).

To prepare, start by frying the pancetta or guanciale until crispy. Then, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and cheese. Combine the cooked pasta with the egg mixture and the cooked pancetta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If you don’t have pancetta or guanciale on hand, bacon can serve as a good substitute.

7. Pasta with Pesto

Pasta with Pesto is a classic Italian dish known for its fresh and vibrant flavors. The star of the dish is the pesto sauce, typically made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

Simply blend together the pesto ingredients until smooth, then toss with your cooked pasta. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach and walnut pesto.

8. Pasta Alfredo

Pasta Alfredo is a rich and creamy dish that’s a universal crowd-pleaser. The classic Alfredo sauce is made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

To make the sauce, melt butter in a pan, then add the cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Toss in the cooked pasta, and you’ve got a decadent meal ready to serve. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can use milk instead of cream and add some steamed vegetables for extra nutrients.

9. Pasta with Tomato Sauce

No pasta list would be complete without the classic Pasta with Tomato Sauce. The secret to a good pasta dish often lies in a well-made tomato sauce, which can be as simple as tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a few herbs.

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add canned tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens. Toss in your cooked pasta and finish with a sprinkle of basil or parsley. If you want to add a bit of richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese.

10. Pasta with Olive Oil and Parmesan

For a simple yet satisfying dish, try Pasta with Olive Oil and Parmesan. This dish embraces the philosophy of less is more, showcasing the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Cook your pasta and simply dress it with good quality olive oil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For added flavour, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few fresh basil leaves. This is the perfect base to add any extras you might have on hand, from grilled chicken to sautéed vegetables.