Simple and Delicious One-Pot Pasta Recipe

One-pot pasta dishes have become a favorite go-to meal for many families due to their ease of preparation and the perfect balance of flavors they offer. Today, we’re going to dive into an incredibly simple yet delicious recipe that you can whip up in no time.

This dish is not only quick but also packed with flavor. It's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or herbs you might have lying around the fridge. The cooking time for this pasta dish is approximately 20-25 minutes, and it serves four generous portions. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

1 pound of your favorite pasta (we recommend penne or spaghetti)
3 tablespoons of olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 zucchini, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the cooking liquid. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables. In the same pot used for boiling pasta (or another large skillet), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute to let it bloom without burning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Pasta. Once your vegetables are softened, add the cherry tomatoes and zucchini. Cook everything together for another few minutes until the veggies have just started to soften. This step helps to meld flavors and ensure that no one vegetable is overpowering.

Step 4: Incorporate the Pasta. Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the vegetables, along with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Toss everything together until well combined. The pasta should be covered in a light sauce made from the tomatoes and vegetable juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor, though it’s completely optional. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you have any handy. Serve immediately while still hot!

Tips for Success:

Select Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh produce over canned options to enhance the flavor.
Use Good Quality Pasta: Opting for high-quality pasta will ensure that it doesn’t become mushy during cooking and retains its shape better.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your dish as you go to make sure the salt, pepper, and other seasonings are just right. Pasta can sometimes absorb more seasoning than you might think!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: ~350 kcal

Fat: 18g
Sodium: 640mg
Total Carbohydrates: 47g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Protein: 13g

Conclusion:

This simple one-pot pasta recipe offers a quick, tasty meal that can be customized to your liking. Whether you're looking for something hearty on a cold winter night or a light summer dinner, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Not only does it save time in the kitchen, but it also ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Experiment with different types of pasta and vegetables as you get more comfortable with this recipe. Try adding some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or even a few pieces of chicken if you’re looking to add protein. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy Your Meal:

Cheerfully served, may your cooking be filled with joy and creativity as you explore the world of simple yet delightful meals like this one-pot pasta. Bon Appétit!