Delicious One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables

One-pot pasta dishes have become increasingly popular among busy home cooks due to their simplicity and versatility. This article will guide you through creating a flavorful one-pot pasta dish, which not only saves time but also ensures that all components of the meal are cooked perfectly together.

Ingredients for One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables

The base ingredients needed to prepare this delightful dish include:

• 300g of pasta (any type like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Capsicum peppers (red or yellow)
• Zucchini
• Carrots
• Sugar snaps (or any other green vegetable of your choice)
• Tomato paste
• Basil leaves
• Olive oil for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese or grated cheese of your preference (optional but recommended)

Steps to Prepare One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables

Cooking time: 40 minutesNumber of servings: 4

1. Preparation: Start by slicing the onion and capsicum peppers. Cut the zucchini, carrots, and sugar snaps into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot or deep pan that can accommodate all ingredients comfortably, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onions to the hot oil and sauté until they become translucent; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Next, add in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute or so until fragrant but not browned.
4. Once the garlic is softened, add all the chopped vegetables into the pot. Stir gently to combine everything well with the onions and garlic. Let it cook while you prepare your pasta.
5. In a separate container, boil water according to package instructions for the type of pasta chosen. When the water comes to a boil, salt it generously (about 1/2 teaspoon per quart) then add the pasta. Cook until al dente following the recommended time on the packaging—usually around 8-10 minutes.
6. While the pasta cooks, pour two tablespoons of tomato paste into another bowl and mix thoroughly with water to create a sauce consistency.
7. After the pasta reaches its ideal texture, drain it well but reserve some of that starchy pasta water. This is important as you’ll need this later in combining all ingredients smoothly.
8. Add the vegetable mixture along with half a cup of reserved pasta water back into the pot containing your pasta. Mix everything together until evenly distributed throughout. Then, gradually incorporate the tomato paste mixture while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. You might want to taste at this stage and adjust seasoning accordingly—adding more salt if needed or some pepper for that extra zing.
9. Lastly, fold in freshly chopped basil leaves along with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (optional). Stir again briefly before serving immediately so that the heat keeps everything warm until everyone is ready to eat!

Tips and Variations

To ensure success when making this dish:

• Do not overcook your pasta; it’s better slightly underdone than too mushy.
• Paying attention to the heat levels during cooking ensures that the garlic does not burn easily, preserving its natural flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier texture rather than light and fresh, consider adding half-and-half or heavy cream instead of just water when combining all elements at the end of preparation.

This versatile one-pot pasta with vegetables offers a great opportunity to experiment based on personal preferences. Feel free to add additional herbs like parsley or use different types of cheese if desired. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal right from your kitchen without spending too much time in the process.