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7 easy pasta dinners to make this week

By Hannah Lewry, 8 April 2024

We asked the TASTE community what they they make on repeat, and the most popular answer by far was pasta. We get it, You can make it as simple or complex as you like and it will turn out well. Plus, it’s once of those budget-friendly pantry staples that will never let you down. So to help you expand your pasta recipe repertoire, Hannah Lewry shares a week’s worth of easy pasta dinners that borrow from the classics, but with a little flair!

1. Pea-and-mascarpone pasta

This sauce packs a real punch. The recipe makes a lot, so you could freeze half for another time. It’s also delicious folded through a risotto just before serving.

Find the recipe for pea-and-mascarpone pasta here.

ALSO READ: 6 ingredients you need to host a budget-friendly Italian dinner party

2. One-pan baked orzo

This is such a simple recipe. The basil pesto feta adds a salty edge, and the grated baby marrow is folded through uncooked to wilt in the heat of the dish, adding lightness.

Find the recipe for one-pan baked orzo here.

3. Hot-smoked salmon pasta

This is my version of one of Abigail Donnelly's recipes. The capers cut through the richness of the creamy sauce, and flaking over Woolworths’ hot-smoked salmon at the end is easy genius.

Find the recipe for hot-smoked salmon pasta here.

ALSO READ: 5 fast, fancy toast dinner ideas

4. Roasted tomato-and-pepper pasta

This is great for a midweek get-together. I love roasting food in a paper parcel – it captures the delicious juices, perfect for tossing with the hot pasta, and is also fun to open at the table. Leftovers are great heated in a pan the next day.

Find the recipe for roasted tomato-and-pepper pasta here.

5. Chicken sausage meatball pasta

This is so good drizzled with brown butter for extra richness. Adding a dash of soya sauce to the mushrooms and allowing it to caramelise just before adding the cream gives a delicious umami boost.