Ep 3. Pass the Pasta

In Struggle Meals season 1 episode 3, titled "Pass the Pasta," host and chef Frankie Celenza is back to share more budget-friendly meal ideas for those on a tight budget. In this episode, he focuses on one of the most versatile and loved ingredients, pasta, and shows how you can create multiple meals with just one box of pasta.

Frankie starts the episode by highlighting the affordability and convenience of pasta, which is a staple in many households. He notes that with a little creativity, you can turn a basic pasta dish into a gourmet meal without breaking the bank. He then takes us through his five pasta recipes, each with its unique flavor profile.

The first recipe is a classic spaghetti with tomato sauce, but with a twist. Frankie adds some balsamic vinegar to the tomato sauce and also cooks the spaghetti in a tomato broth, infusing the pasta with more flavor and creating a deeper, richer sauce. He also recommends adding some fresh herbs and garlic to the sauce for an extra pop of flavor.

The second recipe is a creamy fettuccine alfredo, which is a crowd-pleaser, but can be expensive and heavy on calories. Frankie lightens up the dish by using evaporated milk instead of heavy cream and adds some lemon zest and juice for brightness. He also suggests using whole-wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.

The third recipe is a Japanese-inspired ramen, made with spaghetti noodles instead of traditional ramen noodles. Frankie shows how to make a flavorful broth using pantry staples like miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil, and adds some veggies like mushrooms and bok choy for crunch and nutrition. He also recommends boiling the noodles in the broth itself for maximum flavor.

The fourth recipe is a spicy spaghetti arrabbiata, perfect for those who love a little heat. Frankie amps up the traditional recipe by adding some crushed red pepper, chili flakes, and cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce. He also suggests adding some black olives and capers to the dish for a salty, briny flavor.

The last recipe is a pasta salad, perfect for meal prep or as a quick and refreshing lunch or dinner option. Frankie shows how to make a tangy dressing using dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar, and adds some veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for color and texture. He also suggests adding some protein like canned tuna or shredded chicken for a filling meal.

Throughout the episode, Frankie provides useful tips and tricks on how to cook pasta perfectly, how to make a flavorful sauce with simple ingredients, and how to repurpose leftovers. He also emphasizes the importance of using what you have on hand and not letting anything go to waste. The show's upbeat, fast-paced format makes it easy to follow along and inspires viewers to get creative in the kitchen.

Overall, "Pass the Pasta" is a great episode for anyone looking to switch up their go-to pasta dishes or find affordable meal ideas. Frankie's simple yet flavorful recipes are sure to impress and prove that you don't need to spend a lot of money to eat well.