Intro to Foods and Nutrition
How much? Use 8 oz. (1/2 lb. or 1 cup ) pasta for four people. Cook in plenty of water – 3 quarts for 8 oz. of pasta.(Don’t worry if you make too much. The next day, stir fry leftover pasta and vegetables in a little oil – it tastes great!) Cooking Tips and Tricks
Be sure water is at a rolling boil then sprinkle the pasta gradually. Don’t put it in all at once – it’ll stick together and you’ll have “pasta lump” for dinner! Stir now and then so pasta cooks evenly, and … DO NOT PUT A LID ON THE POT!!! IT WILL BOIL OVER!!! What to do?
Check the package for cooking time-spaghetti usually takes 9-10 minutes. Pasta should never be MUSHY!!! Make it firm, with a bit of “bite.” Italians like it “AL DENTE.” To test, take one piece out of the water and let it cool, then bite. How long?
Add oil to the pasta while cooking. This will keep the sauce from clinging to the pasta. DO NOT… Just say no!!!
As soon as pasta is done, carefully drain it into a colander. DO NOT RINSE IT!!! THIS REMOVES NUTRIENTS! NEVER LET IT STAY IN HOT WATER – IT WILL MUSH!!! Finished?
Macaroni Manners Simply winding strings of spaghetti around your fork is one way to eat spaghetti. Eating it with the aid of a large spoon is another. To spoon or not to spoon? It is completely up to you!
Sauces: Marinara, Alfredo, Pink, Butter, Garlic and Oil, White wine…The possibilities are endless! For added protein: beans cheese and meats are excellent sources! Toppings