FAST food has become synonymous with unhealthy food these days, but it doesn't have to be that way.

There are so many quick, easy and nutritious recipes that can have you putting a meal on the table in less time than it takes to ring for a pizza or go out for a burger.

I always buy smoked salmon when it's on special; it's often near the use-by date but I freeze it if I'm not using it immediately. Combined with fresh vegies and a little olive oil or cream, it makes a fabulous, quick topping for pasta with a hint of luxury.

There are many quick and easy combos for pasta sauce that use only three main ingredients. Add some seasoning and a handful of fresh herbs from the garden and you have a meal in a flash. Try adding torn basil leaves, dried chilli flakes, chopped parsley or dill to give these pasta ideas a lift. Here are three simple dishes to try - fast food indeed.

Pasta, three ways

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS: 250g pasta of your choice, cooked

OPTION 1: 1 bunch fresh asparagus 1 cup smoked salmon pieces 1/2 cup cream

OPTION 2: 125g bacon, diced zest and juice of 2 lemons handful of rocket leaves, washed

OPTION 3: 1 cup sliced mushrooms leaves from 5 sprigs of fresh thyme 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

METHOD, OPTION 1: While pasta is cooking, cut asparagus into pieces and steam for three minutes. Stir asparagus, smoked salmon and cream through the drained pasta. Season to taste and serve.

OPTION 2: While pasta is cooking, saute bacon in a non-stick pan until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Stir through the drained pasta, along with the lemon zest and juice, then toss through the rocket leaves. Season to taste and serve.

OPTION 3: While pasta is cooking, saute mushrooms in a little olive oil or butter. Stir through pasta with the thyme leaves and sprinkle with parmesan. Season to taste.