Easy One-Pot Pasta Primavera

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can be served as a main course or side? You’ve come to the right place with our One-Pot Pasta Primavera. This simple yet delightful pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or even light lunches.

The beauty of One-Pot Pasta Primavera lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from beginners to experienced cooks. The recipe calls for just a few ingredients: a variety of fresh vegetables, your favorite pasta type, garlic, olive oil, and some seasoning. You will also need a large pot for cooking.

Let's dive into the details:

Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes (depending on pasta type)
• Total time: approximately 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people. However, you can easily adjust the quantities to serve more or fewer depending on your needs.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) of pasta – spaghetti, fusilli, or penne works well in this dish
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables: broccoli florets, carrots, and bell peppers are great choices
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your vegetables. Wash the vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, making sure that all veggies are of similar size to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water following the package instructions for al dente pasta (tender but with some resistance when bitten).

Step 3: Sauté the garlic and vegetables. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown—about a minute or two. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this can give an unpleasant flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Combine pasta with vegetables. Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about half a cup of pasta water. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the sautéed garlic and vegetables. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Season and serve. Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately, and enjoy a delicious meal that is both satisfying and healthy!

Tips & Variations

If you want to add more variety or spice up this dish, consider these tips:

• Substitute the olive oil for butter if you prefer.
• Add some chicken broth instead of pasta water for a richer flavor.
• Incorporate additional proteins like diced cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, Romano, or even feta, to enhance the taste of your dish.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Values Per Serving)

• Total Calories: 500-600 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Potassium: 1,200mg (approx. 25% of the recommended daily intake)

One-Pot Pasta Primavera is not only a delightful meal but also a healthy one, packed with essential vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and whole-grain pasta.

Conclusion

Finding an easy yet satisfying recipe can be challenging. With One-Pot Pasta Primavera, you have the perfect solution for busy nights when time is of the essence. Its simplicity allows you to prepare a meal that impresses without requiring extensive culinary skills or too much effort.

Remember, cooking should not only nourish your body but also bring joy and satisfaction. Whether you're feeding yourself or a family, One-Pot Pasta Primavera offers both delicious taste and health benefits. Try it today and let the flavors of springtime vegetables dance on your palate!