One Pot Pasta

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Are you tired of the endless pile of pots and pans after making dinner? Look no further! This One Pot Pasta recipe is here to save the day. With a delightful blend of flavors and minimal cleanup, it will quickly become a weekday favorite. Imagine a hearty dish where pasta, vegetables, and spices come together in one pot, bringing simplicity and deliciousness to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when time is of the essence.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

One Pot Pasta isn’t just convenient; it’s bursting with flavor and incredibly versatile. By cooking everything in one pot, the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and vegetables, ensuring that every bite is packed with goodness. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to incorporate fresh ingredients right from your kitchen. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, leaving you with more time to relax or enjoy with family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) dried pasta
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 chili (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable stock
• Salt & pepper to taste

How To Make One Pot Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the tomato. If you’re using the chili, you can slice that as well. This ensures that you have everything ready to go for quick and efficient cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and chili (if using) and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the chopped tomato and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This will help to develop a rich base of flavors that will imbue the pasta.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Liquids

Pour in the vegetable stock, and add the dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything well, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the dried pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and let it cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from heat. Discard the bay leaf and taste the pasta, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the One Pot Pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with your family or friends, and relish in the uncomplicated yet delicious nature of this meal.

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped bell peppers or carrots along with the onion.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving.
• Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together.
• Feel free to customize the spices—adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat if you like it spicy!

Variations and Customizations

• Add your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a nutrient boost.
• Incorporate proteins like cooked chickpeas, tofu, or shredded chicken to make the dish more filling.
• Switch up the herbs by experimenting with oregano, thyme, or even fresh parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Make it a Mediterranean delight by adding olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or vegetable stock to the pasta and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid, adding more stock will help bring back the creaminess.

FAQ

Can I use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta; just note that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions for the best results.

What can I do if my pasta is too dry after cooking?

If your pasta turns out too dry, simply add a little more vegetable stock or water to the pot while it’s still warm and stir until combined. This will help to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly because it uses vegetable stock and doesn’t include any animal products. You can make it even more wholesome by adding your choice of vegetables and legumes.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of chili or adding red pepper flakes during cooking. For an extra kick, try incorporating spicy sausage or marinated peppers as well.

Conclusion

One Pot Pasta is an excellent way to enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss of multiple dishes. This recipe encapsulates simplicity and flavor, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it as is or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. So next time you’re in need of a quick, delicious meal, remember this one pot wonder—it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

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