One Pot Pasta
Craving a hearty meal but short on time? One Pot Pasta is your answer! This dish brings together your favorite pasta, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Cooked to perfection, it’s a comfort food that satisfies and delights. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 12 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 4g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the pasta, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
6. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Check pasta for doneness; it should be al dente.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions. You can also add proteins like chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
Serving and Pairings
One Pot Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine can enhance the meal, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. This dish can be frozen for up to a month, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should remain al dente.
– Avoid using too much broth; adjust according to pasta type.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances flavor greatly.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality.
– Add cheese at the end for creaminess.
– Make it spicier with red pepper flakes.
– Use herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.
FAQs
How can I make One Pot Pasta vegetarian?
Simply use vegetable broth and load up on your favorite vegetables. You can also add beans for protein.
Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta works well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost that complements the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish creamy?
Absolutely! Stir in some cream or cream cheese at the end for a rich, creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Conclusion
One Pot Pasta is a versatile and delicious meal that brings comfort and convenience to your table. With minimal cleanup and endless variations, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the delightful flavors with your family!
One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta fusilli or penne
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the pasta, vegetable broth, cherry tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check pasta for doneness; it should be al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
