Junior Nonna: Mastering Simple Italian Pastas

In Italy, the Nonna (grandmother) is the heart of the kitchen, sharing her love for cooking with family and friends. Nonna's recipes are simple yet delicious, passed down through generations. Today, in our cooking classes, we're going to learn how to be a Junior Nonna by mastering the art of making simple Italian pastas. Get ready to have fun and cook like an Italian grandma!

Pasta Powerhouse!

Italian pasta comes in many shapes and sizes, each perfect for different dishes. Let's explore some popular types:

• Short Pasta: Penne, farfalle (bow-tie), and fusilli (spiral). These are great for chunky sauces because the sauce sticks to their surfaces.
• Long Pasta: Spaghetti, fettuccine, and linguine. These are perfect for smooth, creamy sauces that coat each strand.
• Filled Pasta: Ravioli and tortellini. These are stuffed with delicious fillings like cheese, spinach, or meat.

Fresh vs. Dried Pasta

There are two main types of pasta: fresh and dried. Fresh pasta is soft and usually made at home or bought for special occasions. Dried pasta is harder and more common, found in most grocery stores. Both are delicious, but fresh pasta cooks faster and has a different texture.

Be a Junior Nonna!

Mastering the Basics: How to Boil Pasta

• Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
• Add Salt: Add a good amount of salt to the boiling water. It should taste like the sea!
• Add Pasta: Carefully put the pasta into the boiling water.
• Cook Pasta: Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes for dried pasta. Stir occasionally.
• Check for Al Dente: Taste a piece of pasta a minute or two before the end of the cooking time. It should be "al dente," which means cooked but still firm to the bite.
• Drain Pasta: Use a colander to drain the pasta. Be careful—it's hot!

Sauce Sensations: Two Easy and Delicious Pasta Sauces

1. Tomato Sauce with Fresh Herbs and Garlic

   • Ingredients:
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
     • 1 teaspoon salt
     • 1 teaspoon sugar
     • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
   • Instructions:
     • Heat Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
     • Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it smells yummy.
     • Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and sugar. Stir well.
     • Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
     • Add Herbs: Stir in the fresh herbs just before serving.

2. Creamy Alfredo with Parmesan Cheese

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 cup heavy cream
     • 1/2 cup butter
     • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Melt Butter: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
     • Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until it starts to simmer.
     • Add Cheese: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
     • Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.

Key Ingredients

• Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley add a burst of flavor to your sauces.
• Cheese: Parmesan cheese makes Alfredo sauce creamy and delicious.

Buon Appetito!

Now that you've mastered the basics in our cooking classes, it's time to personalize your pasta dishes! Add your favorite toppings to make them even more delicious. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled Vegetables: Add some color and flavor with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Cooked Chicken: For extra protein, add cooked chicken pieces to your pasta.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top for extra cheesiness.

Learning to cook simple Italian pastas is a great way to start mastering basic cooking skills. Just like a real Nonna, you can create homemade meals that bring joy to your family and friends. So, put on your apron, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful journey of cooking delicious pasta dishes. For more fun recipes and cooking classes designed for kids, check out our monthly subscription boxes and meal kits. Buon Appetito!