Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromas, and hearty dishes. When it comes to pasta, Italy has a plethora of mouthwatering options that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re a pasta newbie or a seasoned veteran, there’s no denying the appeal of a well-crafted Italian pasta dish. In this article, we’ll explore 18 quick and easy Italian pasta recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic favorites like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio to modern twists like Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey across Italy.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Roman cuisine, and its simplicity belies its rich flavor. A combination of garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and spaghetti results in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, followed by the red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the garlicky sauce. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta alla Vodka
This creamy vodka-infused pasta dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine. With its rich and tangy flavor profile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add vodka-infused tomato sauce, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fettuccine Alfredo
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this classic Fettuccine Alfredo recipe. This comforting dish is made with tender fettuccine noodles smothered in a decadent sauce of melted butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine noodles
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked fettuccine noodles to the saucepan, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne Arrabbiata
A classic Italian recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper flakes with pasta for a spicy yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp (5ml) red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce in the skillet. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Linguine with Clam Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines the sweetness of clams with the tanginess of garlic and herbs, Linguine with Clam Sauce is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add white wine (if using) and clam juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
4. Add chopped clams and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until clams are tender.
5. Add cooked linguine pasta, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella cheese, and tanginess of basil to create a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomato-mozzarella mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
Quickly cook a flavorful pasta dish with just one pot and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your choice)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook sliced onion over medium-high heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Slice Italian sausages into bite-sized pieces and add to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Add cooked pasta to the pot and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Cacio e Pepe
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring just three ingredients: spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, Cacio e Pepe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the cheese mixture in small increments, stirring constantly to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated. Season with black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Pecorino Romano cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious Pasta Primavera recipe, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and a hint of citrus. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. If using wine and broth, add to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Drain cooked pasta and add to the skillet. Toss with vegetable mixture and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Ziti
Get ready to enjoy a classic Italian-American comfort food with this simple and satisfying baked ziti recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pasta Puttanesca
A flavorful and spicy pasta dish originating from Naples, Pasta Puttanesca is a staple of Italian cuisine. This recipe combines the richness of tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic with the comfort of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
– 2 cups (400g) chopped fresh tomatoes or 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes, olives, capers, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and al dente pasta makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a comforting plate of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato-basil mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
This refreshing pasta recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of lemon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for springtime or anytime you want to add some sunshine to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Add butter to the ricotta mixture and stir until melted.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the ricotta mixture. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
These tender shells filled with a rich spinach and ricotta mixture are a comforting Italian-inspired classic. With just the right balance of creamy cheese, savory spinach, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with nutmeg before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pasta Carbonara
A classic Italian dish that combines rich flavors of eggs, bacon, and parmesan cheese with the simplicity of pasta. This recipe yields a creamy, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pancetta or bacon to the pasta and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy sauce with pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and savory flavors, this Tuscan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (such as red, yellow, and green)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned; remove from pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add white wine (if using) and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
8. Serve pasta topped with chicken mixture and Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Are you a beginner looking to cook delicious Italian pasta dishes? Look no further! This article features 18 quick and easy Italian pasta recipes perfect for beginners. From classic favorites like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Fettuccine Alfredo, to more adventurous options like Penne Arrabbiata and Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty one-pot meal or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your pasta, sauce, and cheese, and get cooking!
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