Learn how to cook pasta in microwave with just dry pasta, cold water, sea salt, and olive oil. This simple method makes tender small-shaped pasta without a stovetop, making it perfect for busy nights, dorm meals, quick lunches, and easy dinners.
1 cup dry small-shaped pasta such as farfalle, fusilli, penne, or macaroni
2 cups cold water
1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil, to prevent sticking after draining
Sea salt, to season the pasta water
Add the dry pasta to a deep microwave-safe bowl. Choose a bowl with enough room because pasta expands as it cooks.
Pour in the cold water, add a generous sprinkle of sea salt, and stir. Make sure the pasta sits fully under the water.
Microwave at full power for 2 to 3 minutes longer than the package directions. Stir every 1 to 2 minutes after the halfway point.
During the last 1 to 2 minutes, taste the pasta. Continue cooking in 30-second intervals until the pasta feels tender but firm.
Drain the pasta through a colander. Toss with olive oil, then serve with warm sauce and your favorite toppings.
Use small pasta shapes for the best texture.
Use a deep bowl to reduce bubbling over.
Do not seal the bowl tightly because steam needs space to escape.
Taste near the end instead of relying only on the timer.
For fresh pasta, start with 2 to 3 minutes and continue in 30-second intervals as needed.
Find it online: https://allmealsrecipes.com/cook-pasta-in-microwave/