One Pot Pasta
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. One pot pasta is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots. This recipe combines vibrant vegetables and flavorful seasonings, all cooked together in one pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Perfect for families and quick dinners, you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is to prepare this dish at home.
Ingredients
– 2 cups pasta (any shape)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) provides approximately 320 calories, 10g protein, 50g carbohydrates, 7g fat, and 5g fiber. Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until slightly tender.
4. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add the pasta and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
7. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Check pasta doneness and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
9. Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to thicken.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute any type of pasta you prefer or add protein like chicken or shrimp. You can also use different vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as spinach or mushrooms, to customize the dish to your taste.
Serving and Pairings
One pot pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For added flavor, serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
– Not stirring frequently can cause sticking.
– Using too much liquid may result in a soupy dish.
– Ignoring seasoning can lead to bland flavors.
– Skipping the resting time can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
– Use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
– Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
– Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
– Add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for one pot pasta?
Any pasta shape works well, but shorter shapes like fusilli or penne tend to cook evenly and absorb flavors better in a one pot dish.
Can I add protein to the dish?
Yes! You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just add them at the same time as the vegetables.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot. Adding a bit of olive oil can also help.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use vegetable broth and skip any cheese or dairy toppings.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them at the same time as the fresh vegetables.
How can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dish while cooking for an extra kick.
Conclusion
One pot pasta is a convenient and delicious meal option that brings together flavors in a simple, hassle-free way. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, and with endless variations, it will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of cooking and the delight of a hearty, home-cooked meal!
One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta any shape
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 zucchini diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until slightly tender.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check pasta doneness and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
