​​Why your pasta recipe isn’t working: 7 common mistakes and simple fixes

Pasta often shines brightest when the ingredient list stays focused. It can be tempting to add extra vegetables, cheese, spices, and sauces in an effort to make the dish more exciting. But too many elements can overwhelm the balance.

A better approach is to let a few ingredients stand out clearly. Good olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, or cheese can create a satisfying dish when they are allowed to breathe. Simplicity often produces deeper flavour than complexity.