Pasta is one of those meals that is fulfilling to make because it’s virtually impossible to screw up. You can always add your own twist — mine is minced onion — without screwing up the basic recipe.

Here are five great pasta recipes that don’t require too much effort or know-how. Feel free to substitute any type of pasta for what’s called for. Just make sure to follow the cooking times on the package and you’ll stay on track. If you’ve got some time to spare, try using homemade pasta in any of these recipes. It’s much easier to make than people think.

1. Spaghetti with Sausage: Looking for a way to add some zip to boring old spaghetti? A healthy dose of sausage will wake things up! There’s nothing more Italian than the divine smell of sausage, and family members will follow their noses to the kitchen. If sausage isn’t your thing, you could always substitute some pancetta (bacon). This meal also freezes well, so make a double portion.
   
   
2. Pasta Puttanesca: I adore this recipe because it lends itself well to addition and subtraction. If spicy is your thing, then this fabulous pasta plate is sure to get tongues wagging. You can control the level of zing by adding more or less pepper flakes. If you don’t care for anchovies, toss in some grilled chicken or steamed asparagus. The variations with this recipe are endless.
3. Vegetable Pasta Dinner: If you’re feeling like you’re never getting enough veggies, here’s a 20-minute meal that is both colorful and tasty. This one was a hit with my kids, and it couldn’t be any easier to throw together. This recipe is courtesy of recipezaar.com, which is terrific if you need to review the nutritional facts on meals.
4. Linguini with Clam Sauce: This one always sounds intimidating, but ever-perky Rachel Ray has managed to nail it down. The beauty of this unthreatening formula is that you end up with restaurant-quality meal that will fool diners into thinking you slaved over the stove. Sprinkle some fresh parsley around the plate when you’re done and the presentation will look downright professional. Get ready to take a bow when you serve this one.
5. Lasagna Style Baked Ziti: I rarely have the time to commit to making a lasagna, but this is a fantastic shortcut to the same yummy experience. It’s an inexpensive, family-style meal that wins over even the pickiest eater. I make sure to cook this in a disposable aluminum pan, because removing baked pasta from any cookware is always tricky.
   
   

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