Five Great Pasta Dishes For Students To Microwave

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Pasta is one of the great energy foods in the world and great quick meal can be knocked out in your microwave in no time at all. Cooking pasta in a microwave oven is extremely easy and with the versatility of pasta an enormous number of meals can be created. Here's five tasty and quick meals for all you students out there. All of these recipes are based on you using an 8000 watt microwave oven. You will have to adjust your cooking times according to your microwaves wattage. Remember when you cover food always use microwave safe wrap and that steam will build up and when you take the microwave wrap off this can scold, so be very careful.

1; This recipe will serve two people. Take some pasta shells [conchiglie] about a cup full per serving and put them into a microwave safe container, add a crushed clove of garlic, a tin of chopped tomatoes, a teaspoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of basil. Cover this with a microwave safe plastic and microwave on full power for three minutes. Remove from your microwave and stir, if you think it may need some more liquid add two tablespoons of water, return to the microwave for three more minutes and cook on full power. Remove the microwave and stir. Leave this to stand for two minutes and serve. This is great recipe for vegetarians and has amazing flavours which everybody will enjoy.

2; Macaroni and Cheese;

Put a cup of macaroni in a microwave safe dish with two cups of hot water, two tablespoons of butter or margarine, add a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper, and two cups of milk.Cover with a microwave safe cover cook on full power for five minutes and remove and stir. Return to your microwave and cook for a further five minutes on half power. Add a third of a cp of flour and 10oz of any cheese you fancy. Cover and cook for a further twenty minutes on half power. Remove from your microwave stir well and leave to stand for at least two minutes before you serve.

3;Microwave tuna pasta and sweetcorn.

Place six strips of lasagne in bowl of water and leave to soak for an hour. Put half an onion, a teaspoon of oil, and quarter cup of flour in a microwave safe bowl and cook on full power for one minute add one and half cups of grated cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper, two cups of milk and cook for a further four minutes. Remove from the microwave and stir well. Drain the lasagne. Combine a tin of tuna, a tin of sweetcorn in a dish and the previously cooked onion and cheese mixture and then spread some of the mix over the base of a microwave dish. Put two strips of lasagne over this and then repeat the layers. Spread a quarter of a cup of parmesan cheese over the top, cover and cook for fifteen minutes on full power. Leave to stand for two minutes and serve.

4; Microwave egg noodle casserole;

This is a great winter warmer recipe. Take three cups of noodles and place in a microwave safe bowl. Add two cups of hot water, cover and cook on full power for three minutes. Remove from the microwave and stir cover and cook for a further two minutes, remove from the microwave and leave to stand. Check that the noodles are soft, if not, cook on full power for another thirty seconds. Add a half a cup full of chopped onions and a cup full of any mixed vegetables with a tin of mushroom soup along with two cups of any meat you like. Cover and microwave on full power for five minutes, remove from microwave and stir well adding in two cups of crushed potatoes and then cover and microwave for eleven minutes on three quarter power. Remove from you microwave and leave to stand for two minutes before serving.

5;Microwave Spaghetti Bolognese;

Take one pound of minced beef, half a cup of onion chopped and two crushed garlic cloves and crumble into a microwave bowl. Cover and cook on full power for three minutes. Remove from microwave and drain off the fat. Add a tin of chopped tomatoes, two teaspoons of oregano, two teaspoons of tomato paste, a half a teaspoon of thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper and cook on full power for further five minutes. Remove from microwave and leave to stand. Take spaghetti and put in a microwave bowl add two cups of hot water and cook for three minutes. Remove from microwave and stir microwave for a further three minutes and remove from microwave. Leave to stand for two minutes before serving this wonderful traditional dish.

Enjoy Dining in Oahu - Hawaii's Gathering Place

Oahu has evolved into a top culinary destination with its fusion of European techniques and local Asian and the Pacific ingredients. Diverse attractions, great shopping and unique culinary experiences make it easy to see why Oahu is known as Hawaii's "gathering place." Enjoy romantic restaurants and local hot spots serving Hawaii's regional cuisine or stop into any of the family friendly restaurants and elegant hotel restaurants offering everything from French and Mexican to Thai and Japanese. Oahu offers unique dining options in beautiful settings that include sandy beaches, under a starlit sky and with live Hawaiian music and hula shows.

Hawaii Regional Cuisine, also known as Pacific Rim Cuisine, is a flavorful cuisine that was created in the late 1980's by some of Hawaii's top chefs. Using the freshest local produce, tropical fruits and seafood Hawaii Regional Cuisine features light and creative combinations which often incorporate Asian flavors such as ginger, soy, wasabi and seaweed. While Hawaii Regional Cuisine is a relatively new spin on Hawaii's fresh local ingredients some of the island's traditional dishes include laulau which is butterfish, beef, chicken or pork wrapped in taro leaves and baked, poke which is raw fish mixed with lime juice, coconut milk, onions and other condiments and poi, which is a thick, purple-colored paste similar to rice pudding and used in many Hawaiian recipes and served as a side dish. The most unique and exciting way to enjoy Hawaii's traditional fare is to join in the festivities at a luau, which is a Hawaiian feast. Hawaiian luau's let you kick off your shoes, throw a flower in your hair and a lei around your neck as you experience one of the most exciting dining experiences Hawaii has to offer.

Oahu's North Shore is a popular destination to enjoy some local dining hot spots surrounded by sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls and some of Hawaii's most popular surf breaks. Hukilau Café is a favorite of kama'aina, or locals and offers a fun and friendly atmosphere, huge portions and delicious plate lunches. A plate lunch is Hawaii's version of fast food. Plate lunches usually include white or brown rice topped with your choice of barbecued pork and beef, breaded or teriyaki chicken, salmon served salted and chilled and many more tasty options. Also, these inexpensive meals usually come with a choice of macaroni or potato salad. Oahu's many casual restaurants and beachside stands offer plate lunches which provide a great value for fun-filled family vacations and convenience for those eager to continue with an adventurous day of surfing, snorkeling and kayaking.

Some of Oahu's best regional cuisine can be found at Alan Wong's. Located in Honolulu, Alan Wong's is one of Oahu's finest restaurants. Upon entering Alan Wong's visitors are greeted by an attentive and gracious staff that will seat them at an elegant candle lit table surrounded by beautiful artwork. The menu is full of familiar Island favorites which include the freshest local produce and seafood. Make a selection from the extensive menu such as the Kiawe Wood Grilled mahimahi, enjoy a mouth-watering dessert and then relax while sipping on some of the best coffee that Hawaii has to offer.

Honolulu is Oahu's historic city filled with historic sites and landmarks as well as some of the island's most romantic fine dining restaurants. After an exciting day of sightseeing and enjoying some of Honolulu's most recognized landmarks such as the Aloha Tower, Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona it's time to relax and let the friendly staff at Sarento's treat you to an unforgettable dining experience. Sarento's features exquisite Italian fare with breathtaking views of Diamond Head, Honolulu's famous skyline and Waikiki Beach.

Waikiki is considered Oahu's playground with its world-class shopping, beaches overflowing with activity, and an exciting nightlife. Dining in Waikiki is just as adventurous as the activities and attractions. The International Market Place combines great shopping with a variety of local and international cuisine and free Hawaiian entertainment five nights a week. More memorable dining can be found at the Sheraton Moana Surfrider, which is one of Oahu's beautiful resorts. Offering relaxation, pleasant afternoon tea and romantic dinners, the Sheraton Moana Surfrider provides a delicious menu of traditional Hawaiian cuisine and contemporary island favorites as well as the freshest local seafood and American classics. Waikiki is filled with luxurious accommodations that provide an assortment of dining styles, one-of-a-kind locations and amazing atmospheres creating an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.

Oahu is a diverse island filled with lush country sides, bustling cities, a unique culture and a variety of dining styles and cuisines. Sample traditional Hawaiian dishes, modern Pacific Rim cuisine with an Asian flare and creative mixtures of flavors and endless international selections. Whether you choose a quick bite to eat or want to experience fine dining so incredible it becomes the evening's main attraction Oahu is a vacation destination that has everything your looking for and more.

Book Your Oahu Vacation Online or Call 1 (888) 782-9722 Toll Free!

Stocking the Kitchen For Convenient and Healthy Family Meals

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A well-stocked kitchen can make the decision between cooking a healthy meal at home or running out for fast food or take-out. Here are some staples for the pantry that should always be on the grocery list and in your kitchen, so preparing snacks and planning meals is simple and convenient.

For the Refrigerator
Pre-cooked chicken and meats - already grilled or steamed. Ready to add to pasta, salads, stews, stir frys, and fajitas.

Pre-cut vegetables and fruits - found in the fresh produce section of supermarket. Veggies are perfect for stir frys and pastas. Fruits are ready for snacking, salads or smoothies.

Shredded cheeses - found in the cheese or deli section of supermarket. Great way to save time when making your favorite Italian and Mexican dishes.

Fresh dips and salsas - found in cheese and meat sections of supermarket. Can spice up sandwiches, raw vegetables, crackers, pasta, and baked potatoes. Store in freezer or refrigerator for last minute get-togethers, meals and snacks.

Pizza and bread dough - found in the freezer or refrigerator section of supermarket. Let each family member create their own meal with lots of healthy topping options.

Dairy Products
Choose pasteurized, whole milk and dairy products for those under 5 years old. Some pediatricians say to cut back on whole milk products as young as 3 years old, and introduce low and skim milk options. Be sure to check dates on packages to be sure you're getting the freshest and longest lasting.

Yogurt - particularly plain yogurt which you can add your own fruit and purees. For those under one year, be sure the yogurt is made from whole milk and active cultures. Soy yogurt is an option for those who are lactose intolerant. Plain yogurt is also a good base for salad dressings, smoothies, sauces and a healthy alternative to sour cream for topping baked potatoes, and Mexican foods.

Milk - you may have a few different types of milk (whole, low fat and non-fat) for family members based on age and diet. Soy and rice milk are also good alternatives, especially for those with allergies and lactose intolerance. Have on hand for drinking, making smoothies and baking.

Cheeses - soft cream cheese makes great dips and spreads for all ages. Adding calcium to your family's diet is as easy as sprinkling fresh parmesan over pastas and vegetables. Cheddar cheese is always welcome for sandwiches and homemade macaroni and cheese. Cottage, ricotta and goat cheeses can be part of a healthy meal or snack. Pre-shredded and grated cheeses are very convenient for Italian and Mexican favorites.

Eggs - eggs can make all kinds of quick meals by themselves - omelets, egg salad, frittatas and quiches. Some kids think "breakfast for dinner" is a fun family meal. Choose cage free and organic for the least exposure to harmful bacteria.

For the Freezer
Fresh is usually best for taste and nutrients, however frozen can be convenient stand-by. Frozen items such as peas and blueberries make convenient finger foods for older babies and toddlers. Frozen poultry, meats and fish will create all kinds of meals.

Don't forget to use the freezer for left-overs and storage to create your own convenient "frozen dinners". Your baby's purees, as well as sauces and broths store beautifully in ice cube trays and zip top bags.

For the Pantry
Dried Foods
Bread, grains and pastas are good sources of carbohydrates that can be the basis for a quick and healthy meal. Some dried beans and legumes require more cooking time and preparation but are economical and healthy.

Pasta - this can be any shape or size, so you're ready to make spaghetti, lasagna, macaroni and cheese, udon, and soups. Best choices are egg-less noodles for those under 12 months and wheat semolina for those over 12 months.

Dried Grains - these include couscous, quinoa, polenta and risotto. These make good side dishes to meats and fish dishes as well as appropriate main dish with steamed vegetables or stews. A good staple for Indian and Mediterranean dishes.

Beans and legumes - these include lentils, red kidney beans, garbanzo beans, black beans, and white beans. You're prepared for healthy dips such as hummus and black bean, as well as side dishes, soups and salads.

Breads - including pita, multi-grain, lavosh, bagels, and tortillas. Different breads allow for various stuffings. Create healthy pizzas, burritos, wraps, sandwiches and more.

Rice - infant rice for first meals and to mix in with vegetable and fruit purees. Brown rice makes a good and healthy companion for Asian stir fry, and Mexican dishes.

Dried fruits - these are great healthy snacks alone, as well as good mix-ins for yogurt, granola, oatmeal, and cottage cheese.

Breakfast cereals - these include muesli, granola, low sugar cereals, oat bran, wheat germ, and oatmeal. It's also easy to make your own cereal mix by simply combining your favorite grains such as rolled oats, toasted wheat germ, and oat bran with dried fruit.

Canned and Jarred Foods
Some canned foods are high in fat, sodium and sugar, but many are also high in nutritional value. Check the labels to identify those with the least additives. These include: light tuna in water, organic natural nut butters, all-fruit spread, beans, and tomatoes. Be sure to thoroughly rinse canned beans and vegetables to eliminate extra sodium and oils. Remember low sodium broths and stocks for poaching and boiling meats and vegetables, as well as creating your own soups.

Condiments and Spices
A good supply of bottled sauces, condiments, oils, herbs and spices will allow for lots of creativity. Ingredients such as naturally brewed soy sauce, mustards, ketchup, salad dressings, tomato paste, and Worcheshire give flavor to many dishes as well as create many dips and sandwich spread options.
Use healthy oils such as olive and canola for cooking and baking as well as preparing dressings and marinades. Vinegars such as balsamic are also a good way to add flavor. Remember to refrigerate after opening.

Herbs and spices are best when fresh, but even dried can wake-up a boring food. If possible buy whole herbs and grind them yourself (a clean coffee grinder works well) for maximum flavor.