Boiling water, salt and pasta. Great, but… how about adding a little something extra? Throwing in some new flavours when your pasta is on the boil can make all the difference.

Try adding some bay leaves, a couple of peeled cloves of garlic (which you can then add to the dish itself at the end—they are delicious) or some cayenne peppers.

You will notice a subtle flavour that really comes out in pasta salads or dishes where it’s not overpowered by sauces or other strong flavours.