Ingredients Needed

To make a basic pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 200g of dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
• 1 liter of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional)
• Your choice of sauce (tomato, pesto, or cream-based)
• Grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or pecorino) for serving

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare your simple pasta meal:

1. Start by measuring out the pasta.
2. Choose a large pot to hold the cooking water and bring 1 liter of water to a rolling boil.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the pasta.

Cooking Instructions

Once you have your water ready, follow these cooking instructions:

1. Add the dried pasta to the boiling water. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
2. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente; this means the pasta should be firm to the bite.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander. Be cautious of steam.
4. If desired, toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.

For best results, pair your pasta with a favorite sauce and sprinkle with grated cheese before serving. Enjoy your homemade dish!