One Pot Pasta
One pot pasta is a culinary miracle that combines convenience and taste into a single dish. This recipe offers a delightful blend of ingredients cooked together, resulting in a creamy, flavorful meal that requires minimal cleanup. Ideal for those hectic evenings, one pot pasta allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 350 calories, 10g protein, 4g fat, and 60g carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, sauté onions over medium heat until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
- Add the pasta, dried basil, and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is al dente, add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- Remove from heat, and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute pasta with gluten-free options or use different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Additionally, swap vegetable broth for chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
Serving and Pairings
One pot pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. A light white wine also complements this dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Avoid using too much broth, which can make the dish soupy.
- Ensure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season gradually; you can always add more salt or spices later.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps flavors meld.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
- Use seasonal vegetables for freshness.
- Adjust cooking times based on the type of pasta used.
- Consider adding protein like chicken or shrimp for heartiness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness accordingly.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding chili flakes for heat, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the flavor profile.
Is one pot pasta healthy?
One pot pasta can be healthy depending on the ingredients used. Incorporating plenty of vegetables and choosing whole grain pasta increases its nutritional value.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative, and ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
How do I adjust the serving size?
To adjust the serving size, simply multiply the ingredients by the desired number of servings, keeping the same cooking method.
Conclusion
One pot pasta is not only easy to prepare but also a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your taste preferences. With minimal cleanup and a burst of flavors, it’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!
One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions over medium heat until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
- Add the pasta, dried basil, and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is al dente, add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- Remove from heat, and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.