Have you ever heard of jar cooking? This technique, increasingly popular with those who seek convenience in the kitchen without renouncing taste and lightness, is also the perfect ally for cooking and serving pasta dishes in an original, tasty and quick way.
In this detailed article, we explain what it is, how it works and how to serve up a truly unusual first course, using pasta Valdigrano or the Valbio wholemeal range for an even more complete result.
What is jar cooking?
Jar cooking is a cooking technique that uses airtight glass containers (traditional jars with rubber seals) to cook food slowly and evenly without losing flavour or nutrients. This method combines the advantages of steam cooking, vacuum cooking and the ‘one pot’ method, with an aesthetic that is also pleasing to the eye.
Where does it come from?
The technique has its roots in professional cooking, where it is used to preserve flavours and ensure perfect cooking results. But today, thanks to microwave or home oven cooking, it is within everyone’s reach, even those with limited time or space.
Why is it so popular?
• It maintains flavours: cooking inside the sealed jar means that the aromas are not lost and everything is more intense.
• It is light: fewer seasonings are needed because the food cooks in its own natural juices.
• It is convenient: you can prepare several portions, store them in the fridge and reheat them as needed.
• It is eye-catching: it is served directly in the jar, for a creative and contemporary touch.
And yes, it works very well with pasta too, if you choose quality ingredients and follow a few simple tips.
Jar cooking pasta: is it possible? Yes, and with great results.
Although pasta is often associated with classic cooking in boiling water, jar cooking allows it to be cooked directly in the sauce, with surprising results: more flavour, less waste of starch and halved cooking times if well organised.
The secret? Choose a pasta that holds up well during cooking, such as Valdigrano Qualità Superiore, or Valbio wholemeal pasta, perfect for those who love a more natural diet.
How to cook pasta in a jar: step-by-step guide
What you need:
• 1 x 500 ml glass jar (with lid and rubber seal
• Short pasta (e.g. Valdigrano short pasta)
• Seasoning to taste (already cooked or ready to use)
• A pinch of salt and a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil
• A few tablespoons of water or stock
• Microwave or conventional oven
Method:
1. Place the raw pasta in the jar.
2. Add the seasoning, a little water, salt and oil.
3. Stir gently and close the jar (without the clip, if using a microwave).
4. Cook in the microwave for 6–8 minutes at 600W, or in a bain-marie in the oven at 120°C for 30 minutes.
5. Leave to rest for a few minutes before opening the lid, taking care with the steam!
You can prepare 2–3 jars at a time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days: they are also perfect for taking to the office!
Pasta recipe ideas for jar cooking
Fusilli with courgette, ricotta and mint
A fresh, creamy dish that’s perfect for the whole family. Cut the courgettes into cubes and sauté them for a few minutes in a pan with a drizzle of oil. Pour everything into the jar with the Valbio wholemeal fusilli, add a tablespoon of ricotta, a few mint leaves and a dash of water. After cooking, mix well: you will obtain a delicate, fragrant and irresistible cream.
Also perfect served cold as a summer main course!
Penne with tomato, mozzarella and basil
A great Italian classic in jar form: few ingredients and lots of flavour. Pour the Valdigrano penne into the container, add a generous ladleful of tomato sauce (already seasoned with salt and a drizzle of oil), add a few leaves of fresh basil and a tablespoon of water. After cooking, open the jar and add cubes of mozzarella fiordilatte: the residual heat will melt them slightly, creating a delicious creaminess.
Ideal to take to the office, it is also delicious served warm!
Mini shells with sweet vegetables and cream cheese
A recipe designed for children, but which adults will also love. Use Valdigrano mini pasta shapes (such as mini shells), add peas, baby carrots, a few cubes of boiled potato and a teaspoon of cream cheese. Add a pinch of salt and two tablespoons of water. Cooking in a jar creates a soft, colourful and nutritious dish.
Involve the children in the preparation: they can help fill the jar!
Sedani rigati pasta with aubergine and almond cream sauce
For those who love more intense and decisive flavours. Grill or roast a whole aubergine, then scoop out the flesh and blend it with extra virgin olive oil, a clove of garlic and a handful of almonds. Pour the cream into the jar with the sedani rigati Valdigrano, add a tablespoon of water, a pinch of salt and… close the lid! After cooking, you will have a comforting dish with a Mediterranean flavour.
Also excellent with a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese when serving.
Pasta with red pesto and feta cubes
For those who love intense but quick flavours: place Valbio short pasta, a spoonful of red pesto (sun-dried tomatoes and almonds), a few sliced black olives, a dash of water and a pinch of salt in the jar. After cooking, add crumbled feta cubes: the sweet-salty contrast is perfect.
Serve with raw rocket or fresh baby spinach leaves for a touch of green.
Why try it?
• It is quick
• It is healthy
• It is sustainable (limited amounts, no waste)
• It looks attractive
• It is perfect for weekly meal prep
With jar cooking, your pasta becomes a more complete experience: less stress in the kitchen, more flavour on your plate.
Trying jar cooking pasta is a great way to diversify your cooking routine, combining simplicity and originality. It is suitable for those who are short on time, those who enjoy experimenting, and even those who want to impress with something different.
With Valdigrano or Valbio, you have the perfect base for achieving excellent results: strong, flavourful pasta that lends itself perfectly to this method.
Prepare, seal, cook… and enjoy. Each jar contains a small but wonderful world of flavour.
