Easy One-Pot Pasta with Veggies

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it's important to have a simple yet delicious meal that can be prepared in no time at all. One-pot pasta dishes fit this requirement perfectly as they offer convenience and an opportunity for a quick family dinner or a light lunch. The following recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients due to the inclusion of various vegetables.

This dish requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for those busy days when you are in need of something hearty yet straightforward. The cooking time for this meal is approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, and it serves four individuals generously. The simplicity of one-pot pasta dishes lies not only in their ease of preparation but also in the variety they offer.

Ingredients

For a hearty and delicious one-pot pasta dish, you will need:

• 1 pound of penne pasta (or any preferred pasta type)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach or other leafy greens
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

The recipe is designed to be both tasty and nutritious. The inclusion of leafy greens like spinach, along with colorful vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers, adds a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also contributes beneficial fats.

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the diced tomatoes along with oregano and basil. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. When al dente, drain and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add the spinach or leafy greens, zucchini slices, and bell pepper into the tomato sauce mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Add the drained pasta back into the pot with vegetables and mix thoroughly to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
6. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so that flavors meld properly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

Tips and Variations

Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have available or personal preference. For instance, you could substitute the bell pepper with corn kernels or add some cherry tomatoes just before adding back in the pasta. If you enjoy more robust flavors, consider adding some red pepper flakes.

Cooking Time Summary

The total preparation time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes, including cooking time for the pasta and additional time for combining all ingredients towards the end of cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pot pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. It can be enjoyed hot straight from the pot or allowed to cool down slightly before storing in an airtight container for later consumption.

The versatility of one-pot pasta dishes extends beyond just this recipe; you could try different pastas like farfalle, fusilli, or even use noodles if preferred. Additionally, changing up spices and herbs can transform the flavor profile each time you cook it. This makes these meals not only convenient but also exciting as they cater to various tastes.

In conclusion, this simple yet satisfying meal demonstrates how easy it is to prepare healthy and delicious home-cooked dishes even when time is limited. With its quick preparation and delightful taste, one-pot pasta remains a favorite among busy individuals seeking comfort food without compromising quality or nutrition.