Perfectly Balanced One-Pot Pasta Recipe

In today's busy world, finding a delicious one-pot meal that is both healthy and satisfying can be challenging. Enter this one-pot pasta recipe—simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for those nights when you just want something quick but still delicious.

This versatile dish is ideal as a main course or served alongside salad for a light lunch. The preparation time is around 20 minutes, and the total cooking time doesn't exceed 35 minutes. This recipe serves four generous portions.

Ingredients

• 400g pasta (any type you prefer)
• 1 onion, diced finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 500ml canned tomatoes with basil or any other favorite sauce
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, zucchini)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta. Allow it to cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of pasta; usually about 8-10 minutes.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a separate large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about three minutes until they start to soften. Then add minced garlic and continue stirring for another minute or so until fragrant but not burnt.

Add your canned tomatoes and mixed vegetables into the same pan, bring everything to a simmer, and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes. Ensure that all the flavors meld together by frequently stirring and adjusting heat as needed. Taste the mixture occasionally and season with salt and pepper if necessary.

Once the pasta is done cooking in its pot of water, use a slotted spoon to transfer it into the pan containing the tomato sauce and vegetables. Stir gently but thoroughly so that each strand of pasta gets coated evenly with the sauce. If your sauce seems too thick, you can add some additional pasta water to thin it out slightly.

Allow everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes or so until the pasta has fully absorbed most of the flavors from the sauce. For added richness and taste, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over top at the end of cooking.

Tips & Variations

1. If you prefer a creamier texture instead of tomato-based sauce, you could use heavy cream blended with some of your chosen herbs during the last stages before serving.
2. Varying vegetables can make this dish more nutritious and appealing. Try adding mushrooms or asparagus next time for extra nutrients.
3. For a lower calorie option without compromising on taste, consider using whole grain pasta instead of refined wheat versions.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

This dish is not only quick but also offers significant nutritional benefits due to its mix of complex carbohydrates from the pasta combined with various vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals. It provides a balanced meal that’s easy on your digestive system too, thanks largely to the whole grains used.

Conclusion

A one-pot pasta like this one is not only convenient but also incredibly delicious! It combines simplicity with depth of flavor making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced cooks. Whether you're looking for something quick during weekdays or want a comforting weekend meal, give this recipe a try today and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors in every bite.