How to cook whole grain pasta? 3 recipes

How to cook whole grain pasta so it's tasty and healthy? Whole-wheat pasta is a great choice for those who care about their health, want to eat more fiber, or are looking for an alternative to traditional pasta. Thanks to the whole grain, it's rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, but it requires proper preparation to taste delicious. In this article, you'll learn how to cook whole-wheat pasta, how to make it tasty, and how long to cook whole-wheat pasta.

How to cook whole grain pasta?

How to cook whole grain pasta to perfect al dente and bursting with flavor? Here are the basic steps.

1.     Bring water to a boil. Use 1 liter of water per 100g of pasta. Add a teaspoon of salt, such as finely ground sea salt, when the water begins to boil.

2.     Add pasta. Add pasta and stir gently to prevent sticking.

3.     Cook according to the package directions. How long should whole grain pasta be cooked? Usually 8-12 minutes, depending on the type (check the package for the time). Whole-wheat pasta takes slightly longer to cook than white pasta, but be careful not to overcook it – it should be al dente.

4.     Drain and rinse. Drain the pasta after cooking. If serving cold (e.g., in a salad), rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.

5.     Add olive oil. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking and enhance its flavor.

Want to learn how to make whole-wheat pasta tastier? The key is the right toppings and sauces that will enhance its nutty flavor – see the recipes below!

How long to cook whole grain pasta?

It depends on the type of pasta and the manufacturer. For example, whole-wheat fusilli ORGANIC Alce Nero usually takes 9-11 minutes to cook to al dente consistency. Always check the cooking time on the package, as each whole-wheat pasta can vary. If you cook it too long, it will become soft and sticky, ruining the flavor. Taste the pasta 1-2 minutes before the end of the cooking time indicated on the package to find the perfect consistency.

How to make whole grain pasta taste better?

How to make whole grain pasta taste good? Whole-wheat pasta has a more intense, slightly nutty flavor than white pasta, which can be an advantage. Here are a few tips to make it tastier:

•       Use aromatic sauces. Thick tomato, pesto, or cream sauces pair well with whole-wheat pasta because they balance its flavor.

•       Add fresh herbs. Basil, oregano, or parsley add freshness. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or nuts for crunch.

•       Cook in broth. Instead of water, cook the pasta in a light vegetable broth – it will add depth of flavor.

•       Don't be afraid of spices. Garlic, chili, or cayenne pepper will enhance the flavor of the dish.

•       Choose high-quality pasta. Products from our store have a natural, rich flavor thanks to its organic ingredients.

3 Whole wheat pasta recipes

Here are three simple and delicious recipes that will show you how to make whole wheat pasta tastier. All of them use Organic Alce Nero whole wheat emmer pasta.

Whole wheat pasta with pesto and vegetables

Ingredients (2 servings)

•       200g Organic Alce Nero whole wheat emmer pasta,

•       2 tablespoons basil pesto,

•       1 zucchini,

•       10 cherry tomatoes,

•       2 cloves garlic,

•       2 tablespoons olive oil,

•       Parmesan cheese for sprinkling,

•       salt and pepper to taste.

Preparation

1.     Cook the pasta according to the package instructions (approx. 9-11 minutes). Drain and drizzle with olive oil.

2.     Slice the zucchini and halve the cherry tomatoes. Sauté in olive oil and garlic for 5 minutes.

3.     Add the cooked pasta and pesto, and mix. Season with salt and pepper.

4.     Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

This dish is quick, light, and full of flavor. The pesto pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of whole-wheat pasta.

Whole-wheat pasta with tomato sauce and meat

Ingredients (2 servings)

•       200g whole-wheat fusilli pasta (Organic Alce Nero),

•       200g minced meat (e.g., beef),

•       1 can of diced tomatoes,

•       1 onion,

•       2 cloves of garlic,

•       1 tablespoon olive oil,

•       1 teaspoon oregano,

•       salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste,

•       fresh basil for garnish.

Preparation

1.     Cook the pasta al dente (approx. 9-11 minutes), then drain.

2.     Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil. Add the meat and cook until browned.

3.     Add the tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

4.     Combine the sauce with the pasta, garnish with basil, and serve.

The thick sauce with meat pairs perfectly with whole-wheat pasta, and the spices add depth of flavor.

Whole-wheat pasta salad

Ingredients (2 servings)

•       200 g whole-wheat fusilli pasta (Organic Alce Nero),

•       100 g feta cheese,

•       1 cucumber,

•       10 cherry tomatoes,

•       1 red bell pepper,

•       2 tablespoons olive oil,

•       1 tablespoon lemon juice,

•       salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.

Preparation

1.     Cook the pasta (approx. 9-11 minutes), drain, and rinse with cold water.

2.     Chop the cucumber, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Crumble the feta cheese.

3.     Mix the pasta with the vegetables, feta cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.

4.     Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving.

This is a light salad, perfect for lunch or dinner. Feta and vegetables add freshness, and whole-wheat pasta satiates.

Why is it worth eating whole-wheat pasta?

Whole-wheat pasta is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. It also contains B vitamins, magnesium, and iron. Compared to white pasta, it has a lower glycemic index, so it doesn't cause sudden spikes in blood sugar, which is important for diabetics and those on a diet. Its nutty flavor makes it a perfect addition to many dishes, from simple salads to filling dinners.

Learn more about: What does vitamin B do?

How to store whole-wheat pasta?

Store raw whole-wheat pasta in an airtight container in a dry place to maintain freshness. Refrigerate cooked pasta for up to 2-3 days, preferably drizzled with olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also freeze cooked pasta – after thawing, reheat it in a saucepan or pan.

How to cook whole wheat pasta? 3 recipes Summary

•       Cook for 8-12 minutes in salted water, drain, and drizzle with olive oil.

•       How to make whole wheat pasta tastier? Use aromatic sauces, herbs, and high-quality pasta.

•       How long to cook whole wheat pasta? Usually 9-11 minutes; check the package.

•       Add pesto, sauces, fresh vegetables, or cheese to whole wheat pasta for a bolder, more flavorful flavor.