Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup of your favorite pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta or a vegan marinara sauce to accommodate dietary preferences. The essence of cooking, as my grandmother always said, is to make it your own.
Instructions
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the pasta and water. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged to cook evenly.
- Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then stir and microwave for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the water is mostly absorbed.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot!) and drain any excess water if necessary.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
- Microwave for another 1-2 minutes to heat the sauce through.
- Remove from the microwave, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and incorporated.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
As you stir the pasta, remember that cooking is an act of love, something my mother and grandmother instilled in me. Each swirl of the spoon is a reminder of those cherished family gatherings around our kitchen table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
