Delicious One-Pot Pasta: A Simple Yet Flavorful Meal

A popular keyword for this article is one-pot pasta recipe. If you're looking for a delicious and easy meal that can be prepared in one pot, then this one-pot pasta dish is perfect for you. The combination of fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and satisfying flavors makes it an ideal choice whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the entire family.

This recipe is not only convenient but also incredibly tasty. It’s packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're a beginner cook looking for something simple, or an experienced chef seeking to try new ideas, this one-pot pasta will surely impress. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (about 1 pound) of spaghetti or penne pasta
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 can (about 15 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

To start your dish, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or pot that can accommodate all ingredients comfortably, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it may become bitter if overcooked.
3. Once the garlic is soft, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir well so that each strand of pasta gets evenly coated with oil and garlic.
4. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes along with ½ teaspoon of dried basil. The mixture should resemble a light tomato sauce at this point.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure not to oversalt if using fresh herbs like parsley and basil.
6. Let the pasta simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until all flavors have melded together. Adjust heat as needed during cooking so that the mixture does not burn.
7. Just before serving, stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This step is optional but highly recommended to add extra creaminess and flavor.
8. Serve immediately while hot; garnish with additional fresh parsley for color and presentation.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

This one-pot pasta dish takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It serves 4-6 people as a main course, depending on individual appetites or portion sizes desired.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

The approximate nutritional information for this dish includes:

• Total calories: ~500 kcal
• Protein: ~30 grams
• Fat: ~18 grams
• Sodium: ~400 mg
• Fiber: ~6 grams
• Vitamin C: ~25% of daily value
• Vitamin A: ~75% of daily value

Given its rich nutritional profile, this one-pot pasta dish is not only satisfying but also beneficial for maintaining good health. It provides essential nutrients such as proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins crucial for various bodily functions.

Tips & Variations

To make your own adjustments or try different variations of this classic recipe:

• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra color and texture.
• Use whole wheat pasta for a more fiber-rich option.
• Increase the amount of garlic if you prefer stronger flavors.
• Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for additional Mediterranean flair.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find what works best with your taste buds!

Conclusion

In conclusion, a one-pot pasta dish is not just about convenience; it's also about enjoying delicious meals without compromising on quality. With its ease of preparation, delightful taste, and versatility in serving sizes, this recipe caters perfectly to various dietary needs and preferences.

Taking the time to cook such a meal can be incredibly rewarding. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a satisfying dinner while keeping things simple yet exciting at home. Try it out today and see how easy and enjoyable cooking can be!