Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipe

One-pot pasta recipes have gained popularity in recent years for their convenience and efficiency. They require minimal effort while delivering a delicious meal packed with flavor. In this article, we will explore an easy one-pot pasta dish that is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

The key to a successful one-pot pasta recipe lies in the choice of ingredients and how they are combined. For our recipe today, we'll be focusing on a classic tomato basil pasta. This meal is not only comforting but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course or served alongside a salad for a light dinner.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound of spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start preparing your one-pot pasta dish, begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water comes to a boil, carefully add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente; about 8-10 minutes.

In another smaller saucepan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for approximately one minute until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this can affect the flavor negatively.

Meanwhile, once the pasta is done cooking, reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining it thoroughly. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti nicely.

Mix the crushed tomatoes into the heated garlic mixture along with oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow this to simmer for around five minutes so all flavors meld together beautifully. During this time, stir occasionally and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper according to your taste preference.

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, gently fold in half of the spinach leaves into the saucepan. Let it cook down a bit longer until the greens are wilted but still retain some texture. Pour this prepared tomato basil mixture back over the drained pasta in the large pot or cooking vessel you used initially.

Stir everything together thoroughly until well combined. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving immediately. Garnish with extra cheese and additional spinach if desired for added color and taste variation.

Enjoy!

This one-pot tomato basil pasta is a delightful reminder of the simplicity and joy that comes from home-cooked meals prepared with fresh ingredients. Serve this dish hot straight from the pot or transfer it into individual bowls for easy serving. It pairs wonderfully well with crusty bread, sliced tomatoes, or any fresh green salad to round out your meal.

Feel free to experiment by adding different types of pasta such as penne or fusilli if you prefer a change in texture. You could also explore various herbs like thyme or parsley for unique flavor profiles. Don't hesitate to substitute the type of tomato used either with diced tomatoes or sun-dried ones depending on availability and preference.

One-pot recipes like this one offer convenience without compromising quality. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner solution after work or want to impress guests at your next gathering, this dish offers an easy yet impressive addition to your repertoire.