Quick and Easy One-Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

This easy one-pot pasta is a delicious meal for a weeknight dinner or casual weekend gathering. The quick cooking time ensures that the dish stays fresh, while the cherry tomatoes add both flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 14 oz (397g) jar of cherry tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.
3. Add cherry tomatoes along with dried basil and oregano into the pan and simmer for approximately 5 more minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
4. Drain your cooked penne pasta, reserving some of the water from cooking. Return the drained pasta back into the pot used earlier and add all the ingredients from the tomato pan, along with a bit of pasta cooking water if needed for creaminess.
5. Salt and pepper to taste and mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving immediately so that you enjoy it warm straight from the pot.

Why This Recipe Rocks:

This simple yet satisfying dish can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or even as a starter during intimate gatherings. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of varying skill levels. Plus, it uses basic ingredients you may already have in your pantry which saves time and money.

Health Benefits:

The rich combination of vegetables and whole grains found within this dish provides essential nutrients that support overall health. For instance, tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while penne pasta supplies complex carbohydrates necessary for sustained energy levels throughout the day.

Substitutions & Variations:

If you're looking to add variety or accommodate dietary restrictions within your household, there are several options available. For instance, if someone in your family is lactose intolerant, you could replace some of the olive oil with cream cheese or even use non-dairy alternatives such as almond milk yogurt. Another option would be adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.

Storage Tips:

If there's any leftover pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two days of preparation to maintain its quality and freshness. You can also freeze portions if desired; however, note that re-heating may slightly affect texture due to water content reduction.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this one-pot pasta with cherry tomatoes is a wonderful addition to any meal plan thanks to its versatility, ease of preparation, and nutritional value. Whether you're looking for something quick after a busy day at work or want to impress guests during a casual dinner party - this recipe delivers satisfaction every time.