Easy One-Pot Pasta: A Simple Yet Delicious Meal

Looking for a quick and easy pasta dish that can be prepared in one pot? Then look no further than our simple yet delicious recipe for Easy One-Pot Pasta. This meal is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly convenient, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, and the yield is enough to serve four people.

To start your delicious creation, you will need:

• 400g of penne pasta
• 1 large onion, sliced finely
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
• Cheese of your choice for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir gently but continuously for another five minutes or until the tomatoes begin to release their juices.
3. Pour in enough water to cover all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, add the penne pasta to the pot. Make sure not to overcrowd your pot; this allows each noodle to cook evenly and retain its shape.
5. Cook the pasta for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente—this means that it should have a slight bite when you bite into it, indicating that it is fully cooked inside but not mushy. Drain the pasta well; set aside the pot water as it can be used later to create a more flavorful sauce.
6. Return the pasta and its reserved cooking liquid back into the pot. Add salt and pepper for seasoning according to your taste preferences. Stir in fresh basil leaves if using, then mix all ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined.
7. Garnish with grated cheese of your choice such as parmesan or mozzarella if desired.

Enjoy!

The One-Pot Pasta is ready to serve. It’s a perfect dish for those who love simplicity and want something light but satisfying at the same time. Feel free to add some additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers according to your preference. This recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate such additions.

This dish is not only simple yet delicious but also extremely healthy since it includes whole grains from the pasta and fresh vegetables. The use of olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, while garlic adds a subtle yet potent flavor that enhances every bite without overpowering the other ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper helps in bringing out the natural sweetness in the tomatoes and onions.

One-Pot Pasta is also very versatile and can be customized depending on your taste buds. You could experiment by adding different types of pasta like bow-tie, spirals, or fusilli for variety. Adding various proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or even tofu could transform this dish into a hearty main course. For those who prefer their meals to have a bit more substance, you can add some canned white beans or kidney beans.

The simplicity of the ingredients means that this meal is ideal for beginners in cooking, but it's still sophisticated enough for experienced cooks looking for something quick yet impressive to serve at home. The minimal equipment required—just one large pot—makes cleanup a breeze.

For those who are watching their waistlines or reducing carbohydrate intake, consider swapping out regular pasta for whole wheat varieties or even cauliflower-based alternatives like cauliflower rice. These options provide similar texture and taste while being lower in carbohydrates.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an easy, delicious one-pot meal that will satisfy both your taste buds and your busy schedule, then Easy One-Pot Pasta is definitely worth trying! With its flexibility to incorporate various ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs, this dish offers a versatile option suitable for everyone. Whether you're cooking for yourself or preparing a family dinner, this recipe promises satisfaction and deliciousness every time.