If you’re a fan of instant pasta meals, then you must have heard of Knorr Pasta Sides. This popular brand of pasta sides is easy to make and comes in different flavors that suit different taste buds. However, what do you do when one pack isn’t enough for your family or friends? In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the steps on how to cook two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides.
Preparing for Cooking
Before embarking on cooking two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides, there are some things you need to do first.
Gather Necessary Ingredients and Materials
Ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready before starting the cooking process. For two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides, here’s what you need:
- Two packages of Knorr Pasta Sides (flavor of your choice)
- Water
- A pot or microwave-safe dish
- A stirring utensil
- Optional: Vegetables or protein (e.g., chicken) to add to your meal.
Steps to Properly Measure Out Ingredients
Measuring the right amount of water and pasta will affect the outcome and quality of your cooked meal.
For two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides, follow these measurements:
- 4 cups (32 oz) water
- 2 packs (4.3 oz each) Knorr Pasta Sides
Measure accurately using measuring cups to avoid overcooking or undercooking your meal.
Tips for Using Different Cooking Methods
The traditional way to cook a Knorr Pasta Side is on a stovetop; however, if desired, it can be microwaved or even pressure-cooked in an Instant Pot.
Here are some tips to consider when using either method:
Stovetop Method
When using a stove top, use a non-stick pan with a lid.
Ensure that there is enough water in the pot as you don’t want to end up with dry pasta. The water should be boiling and salted before adding the pasta.
It is important to stir regularly and consistently while cooking, especially in the first few minutes of cooking.
Microwave Method
When using a microwave, ensure that you use a microwave-safe dish/container large enough for two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides.
Always cover your container with plastic wrap or a lid when microwaving.
Since not all microwaves are created equal, monitor the cooking process and adjust accordingly based on your specific microwave settings.
Instant Pot Method
This relatively new method of cooking Knorr Pasta Sides requires some different steps than the previous methods mentioned. When using an Instant Pot, place enough water into it so that if covers around 25% of the uncooked pasta (approximately 1 – 2 cups).
Insert the IP inner pot and set it in ‘Saute’ mode; heat olive oil before adding chopped garlic(optional) followed by onions (optional). Saute until they turn translucent. Add seasoning from one packet into this mixture.
Add water and keep stirring till it boils. Now add both packets of uncooked pasta and stir again making sure they are evenly submerged in water. Close the lid, ensure the pressure release valve is set to seal properly because we will cook on High Pressure(Default) for five minutes with quick release pressure.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Stovetop Method
- Boil water: In a non-stick pan with a lid, boil four cups of salted water until it comes to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta: Gently pour both packets of Knorr Pasta Sides into the boiling water.
- Stirring Consistently: While pouring in Knorr Pasta Side mixes keep stirring them together gently without creating clumps.
- Simmering/Boiling: Cover the pot with its lid and let it cook on medium-low heat. Gently stir occasionally to avoid clumps for 7-8 minutes, until the pasta is cooked through.
Microwave Method
- Preparation: In a microwave-safe dish/cooking bowl, add both packets of Knorr Pasta Sides along with 4 cups of hot water and stir in seasoning mix from both packets until it melds well together.
- Cook First Cycle: Microwave on high setting for about 10 minutes (for each cycle).Every 3 minutes, take out the bowl to give it a gentle stir.
- Second Cycle: Put back the bowl in cooking set up and give it additional microwave cycles (about three more) taking ten mins per round while stirring frequently to ensure even-cooking until the pasta looks tender.
Instant Pot Method
- Preparing the Instant Pot: Heat the Olive oil using ‘Saute’ mode .Add chopped garlic(optional) followed by onions (optional). Saute till they turn translucent.
- Add Water & Seasoning: Add one packet’s worth of pasta seasonings into this mixture and keep sauteing for around two-three mts.
- Add Pasta & Stirring Consistently: Pour two uncooked packs of knorr pasta together with boiling/hot water and mix everything properly so that nothing remains undone or bubbly.
- Pressure Cooking Setup: Close lid, set Instant Pot on “HIGH” pressure along with sealing option chosen.Select time for five minutes by keeping valve pressure release button on ‘seal.’
- Quick Pressure Release Valve Carefully open when ready; now toss everything gently making sure every inch inside mix uniformly before serving fresh.
Additional Tips & Tricks
Troubleshooting Problems During Cooking
Noodle Clumping
If you prefer straight noodles instead of clumped ones in your dish,Making sure you keep stirring consistently, adding water when necessary will prevent clumping of the noodles.Save yourself from such issues!
Over Seasoning
If you over-season your pasta, you can fix it by adding dairy products like milk or cheese to mellow down the saltiness; alternatively,squeeze out lemon juice, add sugar and gradually adjust ingredients to restore balance.
Alternative Seasonings
Consider adding different protein options such as ground beef or chicken to your Knorr Pasta Sides for variety.
You can also try substituting the seasoning packets with more natural ingredients like herbs, garlic, and olive oil.
Conclusion
Cooking two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides is not a difficult task once you have mastered the steps involved in either cooking method. Whether microwaving on cutting-edge technology or stovetop traditional style – cook it well for all round satisfaction! So grab your utensils and get cooking – one pack won’t be enough once you’ve tested both these delectable recipes!
Q&A
- Q: Can I cook two packs of Knorr Pasta Sides in one pot? A: Yes, you can. Simply double the amount of water required according to the package directions and add both packets of pasta sides. Stir occasionally and add any desired protein or vegetables for a delicious and easy meal.
- Q: How can I jazz up my Knorr Pasta Sides for additional flavor? A: Try adding cooked chopped bacon, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, or chopped fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. You can also mix in grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
- Q: Can I store leftover Knorr Pasta Sides? A: Yes, you can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, add a small amount of water or milk to the pasta before microwaving or heating on the stovetop.
- Q: What are some protein options that go well with Knorr Pasta Sides? A: Cooked chicken breast, cooked shrimp, diced ham, crumbled sausage, or canned tuna are all great options to add protein to your pasta dish. You can also try adding beans such as chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian option.
