One Pot Pasta
One Pot Pasta is the ultimate solution for busy cooks who crave a hearty meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. This dish combines pasta, vegetables, and proteins in one pot, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while keeping cleanup to a minimum. Perfect for families or meal prep, this recipe is versatile and packed with nutrients, making it a staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients
– 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, spinach)
– 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, sausage, or beans)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
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 (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 5g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add chopped vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth.
6. Add the pasta and stir to combine.
7. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
9. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Once pasta is al dente, remove from heat and stir in the cooked protein.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. You can also use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making this recipe adaptable to your pantry and preferences.
Serving and Pairings
One Pot Pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to moisten if necessary. This dish can be frozen for up to two months, though the texture of the pasta may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Not stirring the pasta enough can lead to sticking.
– Using too much liquid can make the dish soupy.
– Forgetting to season may leave the dish bland.
– Overcooking the vegetables can make them mushy.
– Not covering the pot can result in unevenly cooked pasta.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality broth for a richer flavor.
– Experiment with different proteins for variety.
– Add cheese at the end for a creamy texture.
– Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta used.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in One Pot Pasta?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and can save time. Just add them at the same time as fresh vegetables.
How do I make One Pot Pasta vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can add more beans or tofu for protein.
Is One Pot Pasta healthy?
When made with whole ingredients, such as vegetables and lean protein, One Pot Pasta can be a healthy meal option.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
How do I know when the pasta is done?
Taste a piece of pasta to check for doneness; it should be al dente, firm but cooked through.
Conclusion
One Pot Pasta is not only a time-saver but also a delicious and nutritious meal that you can adapt to your tastes. With its simple preparation and endless variations, it’s perfect for any occasion, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Try it today and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in one easy dish!
One Pot Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta fusilli or penne
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped vegetables bell peppers, zucchini, spinach
- 1 cup cooked protein chicken, sausage, or beans
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth.
- Add the pasta and stir to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is al dente, remove from heat and stir in the cooked protein.
