Delicious and Simple One-Pot Pasta Recipe

One-pot pasta is a popular dish among home cooks due to its simplicity and convenience. It requires minimal preparation time yet delivers hearty comfort food that satisfies the entire family. This easy recipe serves four people, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

The cooking process for this pasta dish takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. The simplicity of a one-pot meal also means less clean-up after dinner. You only need a large saucepan or pot with a tight-fitting lid, which helps in retaining the flavors while cooking your pasta and vegetables.

• Main ingredients: 1 lb (450g) of short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves minced; a pinch of red pepper flakes; salt to taste; 1 can (14 oz/398g) of crushed tomatoes; and fresh basil for garnish.
• Optional add-ons: You may also choose to include sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers if you prefer more texture or color in your dish. These vegetables add extra flavor and nutrients without requiring much additional time or effort.

To begin, heat up the olive oil over medium heat inside a large saucepan that has a tight-fitting lid. Once heated, add the minced garlic along with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat (optional). Sauté until fragrant but not browned; this usually takes about 2 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring water to boil in another pot according to package directions. Salt the boiling water generously and cook your preferred type of short pasta until al dente - meaning tender yet firm to bite. Drain thoroughly once done and set aside.

Add the drained pasta back into the saucepan containing the garlic mixture, followed by the crushed tomatoes. Stir well so that all strands are evenly coated in tomato sauce. If desired, stir in any optional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or peppers at this point. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

For added freshness and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil over each serving before enjoying hot off the stove. Serve with a side of crusty bread if preferred, but it’s equally delicious served on its own. This dish pairs wonderfully well with a crisp green salad or a simple Caesar salad for a more balanced meal.

The key to success here lies in ensuring that your pasta doesn’t become soggy by overcooking it. By adding the pasta after heating up the garlic mixture, you avoid this common pitfall. Additionally, tasting as you go helps adjust seasoning appropriately depending on personal preferences; feel free to add more salt or even sugar if needed.

One-Pot Pasta is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable based upon what ingredients you have available at home. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, various vegetables, or even swap out the tomato base for something else like pesto or Alfredo sauce. Each variation promises a delightful twist on this classic comfort food.

For those looking to vary their routine while still enjoying delicious meals, One-Pot Pasta provides an ideal solution. Its versatility makes it suitable for different occasions and dietary restrictions such as gluten-free pasta alternatives if desired. Whether served with or without additional garnishes, this recipe ensures a satisfying culinary experience every time.

With just 20 minutes of active preparation and a few basic ingredients found in most kitchens, you can create a wholesome family meal that everyone will love. So next time you're short on time but craving something hearty and comforting, consider trying out this simple yet delicious One-Pot Pasta recipe!