Easy One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables: A Delicious Meal in Minutes

In today's fast-paced world, there is a growing demand for simple yet delicious meals that can be prepared quickly and efficiently without compromising on taste or nutrition. Enter the one-pot pasta dish – perfect for busy weekdays when time is of essence but you still want to treat yourself to something hearty and satisfying.

One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables not only serves as a fantastic meal option due to its convenience but also offers numerous health benefits because it incorporates a variety of colorful vegetables. This recipe yields approximately four servings, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

To begin with, prepare all the ingredients by slicing, dicing, or mincing as required. Set aside any herbs and cheeses until later in the preparation process.

Step 2: Start Cooking Pasta

In a large pot over medium heat, bring water to a rolling boil according to package instructions for your specific pasta type. Once boiling, add salt and cook pasta until al dente (firmness to taste), usually about 8-10 minutes.

Cooking Time: About 25 minutes (including noodle cooking time)

Step 3: Begin Sautéing Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, heat up olive oil in a separate skillet on medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Then add zucchini rounds, bell pepper pieces, chopped onions, and continue stirring for another few minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.

Cooking Time: About 5-7 minutes

Step 4: Mix Pasta with Vegetables & Tomatoes

Once the pasta has been cooked al dente, drain it thoroughly using a colander. Return the drained pasta to the same pot you used for boiling. Add the sautéed vegetables along with diced tomatoes and cook everything together gently on low heat for another five minutes or so until flavors meld nicely.

Cooking Time: About 10 minutes

Step 5: Finish With Fresh Herbs & Cheese (Optional)

Towards the end of your meal preparation, add fresh torn basil leaves and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: ~450 kcal (approximate value)
• Fat content: ~30g
• Protein content: ~18g
• Total carbohydrates: ~60g

This dish provides a balanced meal packed with essential nutrients, including fiber from vegetables and whole grains found in pasta. It is low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals due to its diverse ingredient selection.

Conclusion

The one-pot pasta with vegetables offers more than just convenience; it brings together simplicity and nutritional value. By following this straightforward yet creative recipe, you can enjoy a comforting dinner that nourishes your body while satisfying your palate. Whether served as part of a healthy diet plan or simply enjoyed on its own, this meal promises to become a favorite among families looking for quick, wholesome options during busy times.