Prepping Your Weeknight Dinner Just Got Easier With This All-In-One Pasta Cooker

Pasta is a pantry staple—it's done in a matter of minutes, rarely disappoints, and the result is a dinner you can make without hassle when you're pressed for time. But as easy as that might sound, it gets even easier with this all-in-one pasta cooker and strainer from Lékué ($25).

All you need to do is fill the container with water and add whatever kind of pasta you have on hand. Once you’re ready, simply place the container in the microwave and cook the pasta for the same amount of time as you would on the stove (about eight to 10 minutes). When it’s done, rather than get the colander involved, simply use the lid as a strainer. Just be sure to wear oven mitts while removing the cooker from the microwave and straining the pasta as it gets hot.

To make matters even easier, you can just throw the whole thing in the dishwasher when you're done. So, no more colanders and pots to rinse.

If you prefer, Lékué also makes a very similar product for cooking rice, couscous, quinoa, and other grains. And if things do get a bit messy in the microwave—as they tend to do—be sure to check out this volcano that erupts stain-removing steam to help you clean it.

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