Easy One-Pan Pasta

Discover how to make a simple yet delicious EASY ONE-PAN PASTA. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick but still satisfying and flavorful!

Cooking time: 30 minutes, Servings: 4 people

1 pound (about 454 grams) of spaghetti or your favorite pasta type.
2 tablespoons olive oil.
1 small onion, finely chopped.
3 cloves garlic, minced.
2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved.
1 cup of cooked and drained broccoli florets.
Salt to taste.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional).

The one-pan pasta recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. By preparing it all in the same pan, you save time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients and Preparation

To start making your one-pan pasta, first, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Salt the water generously before adding the pasta. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions (usually 7-10 minutes). Drain the cooked pasta and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. This step ensures that you get a nice base flavor for your pasta dish.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together for another few minutes so that all the flavors meld well. The tomatoes will start to break down slightly, adding natural sweetness and acidity to the dish.

Assembly

Nestle the drained pasta into the pan with the onion-tomato mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine everything evenly. At this point, you can also add in any vegetables or proteins that you might want to include based on your preference. Broccoli is a fantastic addition here as it adds both color and crunch.

Season generously with salt according to taste. Taste the pasta before serving; sometimes more salt may be needed depending on how salty the water was initially. Fresh basil can add an extra burst of freshness if you choose to sprinkle some over each serving just before eating.

Tips for Success

Ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly al dente – firm yet tender – so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with other ingredients later on in the process.

Strong: Using a large pan helps distribute heat evenly, preventing certain parts of the dish from burning while others remain uncooked. This also allows you to toss everything together without too much difficulty.

Never overcrowd your skillet when cooking onions and garlic; it’s better to do this in two batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steam rather than proper sautéing, which might affect the overall texture of your final dish.

Strong: Properly cooked vegetables like broccoli add not just nutritional value but also vibrant colors to make the presentation appealing too.

For those who prefer a creamier consistency, you could whisk in some heavy cream at the end. Just ensure that it doesn’t overpower all other flavors present already.

Strong: Always adjust seasoning last because after combining cooked pasta with sauce and vegetables, its texture changes slightly which might affect how much salt is needed overall.

Serving Suggestions

This easy one-pan pasta can be enjoyed hot straight from the pan or even chilled if you prefer cold meals sometimes. Serve alongside a side salad or some crusty bread for an extra touch of luxury at home.

One thing worth mentioning is that leftovers are great too! Simply reheat the pasta in the microwave or on stovetop, stir well again if necessary, and enjoy another delicious meal. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Conclusion

A EASY ONE-PAN PASTA is more than just a quick dinner; it's about simplifying your life without sacrificing quality or taste. With its minimal preparation steps and ability to accommodate various dietary preferences, this recipe stands as proof that good food doesn't have to be complicated.

If you're looking for something simple yet comforting, try making one of these dishes today! Whether you’re a busy student, a working professional, or someone who enjoys experimenting with new recipes at home, easy one-pan pasta fits perfectly into any lifestyle. Happy cooking!