One Pot Pasta
One pot pasta is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. This dish combines pasta, veggies, and your favorite proteins all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal without the fuss. Perfect for families and anyone looking to save time in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 400 calories, 12g protein, 15g fat, 55g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. 3. Toss in diced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until slightly softened. 4. Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. 5. Add uncooked pasta of your choice, stirring to combine. 6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. 7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. 8. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente. 9. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed. 10. Finish with fresh basil and serve hot. 
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use gluten-free pasta or swap out seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale. Additionally, protein options can include chickpeas or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
Serving and Pairings
One pot pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage and Reheating
To store, place the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the pasta texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness.
- Not stirring enough can cause the pasta to stick.
- Adding too much liquid may result in a soupy dish.
- Forgetting to season can make the dish bland.
- Using the wrong pasta type may affect cooking time.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with different vegetable combinations.
- Consider adding cheese for creaminess.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make one pot pasta vegan?
Yes, simply omit any meat or dairy and use vegetable broth. You can add more veggies or beans for protein.
How do I prevent my pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot to prevent it from sticking together.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a convenient option; just add them directly to the pot without thawing.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini work best as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
Conclusion
One pot pasta is not only a time-saver but also a delicious way to enjoy a complete meal with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to get creative with ingredients while bringing the family together for a satisfying dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy the flavors and convenience it offers!
One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta of your choice
- 2 cups diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in diced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until slightly softened.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
- Add uncooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed.
- Finish with fresh basil before serving.