Easy One-Pot Pasta with Garlic & Basil

Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious pasta dish? One-pot pasta recipes like this one are perfect for busy weeknights or even casual dinners where you want to impress your guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. In this article, we'll explore how to make a simple yet satisfying One-Pot Pasta with Garlic & Basil. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and can be customized according to personal preferences.

When it comes to one-pot meals, they are convenient because everything is cooked in one pot, reducing the need for multiple dishes. One-Pot Pasta is particularly appealing as it's a great option when you're short on time or feeling lazy about washing pots and pans after dinner. The simplicity of this recipe ensures that it remains fresh and exciting each time.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb (450g) pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup basil leaves, fresh or dried
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese of your choice (optional)

Steps:

1. Boil water in a large pot. Once the water starts to boil, add salt for seasoning and then drop in your pasta. Follow package instructions regarding cooking time until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare garlic by mincing it finely with a knife or using a garlic press. Set this aside.
3. In a separate small bowl, mix together olive oil and minced garlic for added flavor. Reserve this mixture.
4. When your pasta is ready, drain it thoroughly but reserve some of the starchy water from cooking (about 1/2 cup). This will help in creating a creamy sauce without adding more ingredients later on.
5. To make the final touch, add the reserved garlic and olive oil mixture into the drained pasta. Stir well to ensure all strands are coated evenly.
6. Now it's time for the herbs! Add fresh or dried basil leaves according to your preference. Fresh herbs generally provide a more vibrant flavor while dried ones might be used if you don't have access to fresh ones at home.
7. If desired, add some grated cheese on top before serving. Parmesan or mozzarella could work well here depending on the type of pasta you are using; however, feel free to experiment with other cheeses as per taste.
8. Season with salt and pepper according to your liking. And there you go! Your One-Pot Pasta is ready to serve hot.

The cooking time for this dish typically ranges between 15-20 minutes depending on the specific type of pasta used. It serves approximately four people comfortably, which makes it suitable for casual gatherings or a family dinner. Feel free to adjust portion sizes based on how many you plan to have at your table.

One-Pot Pasta with Garlic & Basil offers versatility in terms of customization too. You can add additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even some spinach if available. If you prefer a different kind of pasta like penne or fusilli, feel free to substitute accordingly. Similarly, substituting other herbs for basil will give the dish a distinct character, making each meal unique.

For those who love experimenting with flavors and textures, adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes can enhance the taste further without drastically changing the essence of the recipe. Even if you're not into cooking much but still want something comforting and delicious for dinner, this pasta dish is an excellent choice. It’s straightforward yet full-bodied enough to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

One-Pot Pasta with Garlic & Basil doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds; it also brings comfort during colder months or provides a delightful change during warmer seasons. Whether you're looking for something hearty and substantial or light yet flavorful, this recipe covers both bases admirably. So next time you're craving pasta but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen, consider giving this simple yet tasty dish a try.