Delicious One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables

Looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your whole family will love? Look no further than this One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want to enjoy a nutritious, home-cooked meal. The vibrant colors of the vegetables paired with the comforting flavors of pasta make it a favorite in our household.

This dish is designed to be quick and easy, making it ideal for those days when time is short but not willing to compromise on quality or taste. The total cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, yielding about six generous servings. This recipe can easily be halved if you're serving just a few people.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or any other shape)
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 zucchini, sliced
2 carrots, diced
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes depending on your preference.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.
Add all the sliced vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots) to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for another 5 minutes or so, allowing them to soften slightly without turning mushy.
Once the pasta has reached the desired tenderness, drain it thoroughly in a colander, reserving some of the pasta water if needed later.
Return the drained pasta and any reserved cooking liquid to the pot. Add the cooked vegetables from the skillet. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring everything together gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss until everything is well combined and heated through. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in half a cup of heavy cream right before serving.
Optional: Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and color.

Tips for Success

For the best texture, make sure not to overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta adds a nice contrast to the soft vegetables.
If you find your sauce too thick or dry at the end, simply add a bit of reserved pasta water to thin it out as desired.
Feel free to adjust vegetable quantities based on what looks fresh in your fridge. Broccoli, cauliflower, and other green vegetables can also complement this dish nicely.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

This recipe provides a balanced meal rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, along with a touch of protein if you decide to add meat such as ground turkey or chicken. Be mindful of portion sizes; this dish is hearty enough for two people to enjoy as a main course.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a burst of color and freshness to your plate. It’s a versatile recipe that can be modified easily based on what you have in the pantry or fridge, making it an excellent addition to any meal rotation. Whether you're looking for something comforting after a long day at work or seeking a fresh start to your weeknight dinner routine, this pasta dish is sure to hit the spot.