Pasta is a staple in many cuisines, and when it comes to simple yet delicious pasta dishes, Jamie Oliver is a name that comes to mind. The British celebrity chef is known for his emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and creating dishes that are both easy to make and packed with flavor. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta, a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Understanding the Basics of Jamie Oliver’s Cooking Style
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the basics of Jamie Oliver’s cooking style. Jamie is all about using fresh, seasonal ingredients and keeping things simple. He believes in allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, rather than relying on complicated sauces or heavy seasoning.
The Importance of Using Fresh Ingredients
When it comes to making Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. Jamie emphasizes the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and this is particularly important when it comes to the pasta itself. Look for high-quality pasta that is made from durum wheat semolina, and opt for a shape that holds onto sauces well, such as pappardelle or spaghetti.
Choosing the Right Pasta Shape
The shape of the pasta is also important, as it can affect the way the sauce clings to it. Jamie recommends using a shape that has a rough texture, such as pappardelle or rigatoni, as this will help the sauce to cling to it better.
The Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Jamie Oliver’s cooking style, let’s move on to the recipe itself. This simple pasta dish is a staple in Jamie’s household, and it’s a great way to get started with cooking pasta.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) high-quality pasta (such as pappardelle or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (250g) grated mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Here’s how to make Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to release their juices.
- Stir in the grated mozzarella cheese and cook until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips and Variations
While Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta is a delicious dish on its own, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and add your own twist. Here are a few tips and variations to try:
Adding Protein
One way to add some extra protein to your pasta dish is to include some cooked chicken or sausage. Simply cook the protein of your choice in the skillet with the onion and garlic, then add the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
Using Different Types of Cheese
While mozzarella is a classic choice for pasta dishes, you can also experiment with other types of cheese. Parmesan, for example, adds a nice salty flavor, while goat cheese can add a tangy twist.
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. By using fresh, seasonal ingredients and keeping things simple, you can create a pasta dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to get started with cooking pasta. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of Jamie Oliver’s simple pasta!
What is Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta?
Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta is a classic Italian dish made with just a few ingredients, including pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. This recipe is a staple in many Italian households and is often served as a quick and easy weeknight meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
The recipe is also highly adaptable, making it a great option for those who like to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta is a great recipe to have in your repertoire.
What ingredients do I need to make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta?
To make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta, you will need a few basic ingredients, including pasta of your choice, a can of crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You may also want to add some grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves to give the dish an extra burst of flavor.
It’s worth noting that the quality of the ingredients can make a big difference in the final result. Look for high-quality pasta and tomatoes, and use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding other ingredients, such as cooked vegetables or meat.
How do I cook the pasta for Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta?
To cook the pasta for Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This should take around 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you are using.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside to wait for the sauce. It’s a good idea to reserve some of the pasta water before draining, as this can be added to the sauce later to help it cling to the pasta.
How do I make the sauce for Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta?
To make the sauce for Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta, heat some olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add some minced garlic and cook for a minute or two until fragrant, then add a can of crushed tomatoes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer it for around 10-15 minutes until it has thickened slightly.
You can also add some other ingredients to the sauce to give it more flavor. Some options might include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, a handful of chopped fresh herbs, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Can I customize Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta recipe?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta recipe is highly adaptable, making it a great option for those who like to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Some ideas for customizing the recipe might include adding cooked vegetables or meat to the sauce, using different types of pasta or tomatoes, or adding some grated cheese or chopped fresh herbs on top.
You can also try adding some other ingredients to the sauce to give it more flavor. Some options might include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, a handful of chopped fresh herbs, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The key is to taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
How long does it take to make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta?
Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in around 20-30 minutes. This makes it a great option for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time. The recipe involves cooking the pasta and making the sauce, which can be done simultaneously to save time.
To make the recipe even quicker, you can try using pre-cooked pasta or a pre-made sauce. However, keep in mind that these shortcuts may affect the flavor and texture of the final dish.
Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s Simple Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or for serving a crowd. The sauce can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to use it.
The pasta can also be cooked ahead of time, but it’s best to wait until just before serving to combine it with the sauce. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming mushy or sticky. Simply reheat the sauce and combine it with the cooked pasta, then serve hot and enjoy.