Easy One-Pot Pasta with Tomatoes

One-Pot Pasta has become a popular go-to meal for busy nights when you want something quick and tasty. This dish is not only easy to make but also requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for those who are short on time.

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta (any variety such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced finely
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup of water or vegetable broth (optional for added flavor and creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for extra flavor)

Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Instructions:

1. Start by boiling water in a large pot. When the water reaches a rolling boil, add salt and pasta to the pot. Stir occasionally so that it doesn’t stick together or to the bottom of the pot.
2. Meanwhile, in another smaller pan, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and translucent. This step is essential as it helps add depth to the dish by caramelizing the onions slightly during cooking.
4. Once the onion has softened, add minced garlic to the pan and stir continuously while sautéing for another minute until fragrant. Garlic should be lightly golden but not burnt.
5. Add crushed tomatoes along with any optional liquid such as water or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. After about 5 minutes of simmering, pour this tomato sauce into the pot where your pasta is boiling. Reduce heat if necessary so that both ingredients blend together nicely without burning the garlic or overcooking the pasta prematurely.
7. Let everything cook together for approximately another 10-12 minutes, giving time for flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce while still retaining its al dente texture. Adjust seasoning according to preference by adding salt and pepper as needed during this final stage.
8. Towards the end of cooking, if you want a creamier consistency, whisk in a small amount of heavy cream right before serving.
9. Once done, remove from heat immediately; sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using) for garnish. Serve hot alongside your favorite side dish or simply as is!

To ensure perfection every time, follow these tips:

• Timing matters. Make sure to check on the pasta regularly towards the end of its cooking period because it can go from perfectly al dente to overcooked very quickly.
• Flavor is key. Don’t hesitate to add extra spices or herbs that you enjoy based on personal taste preferences. Fresh parsley, oregano, or even a splash of red wine could enhance the flavor profile significantly!
• Careful with heat distribution. Ensure that all ingredients are distributed evenly throughout the pot for even cooking; this will help prevent any pasta pieces from getting mushy while others remain undercooked.

This simple yet delicious meal is perfect whether you're looking to have a wholesome dinner or prepare something special for family gatherings. It serves as an excellent base upon which various toppings and flavor combinations can be explored, depending on individual tastes. Whether it's adding grilled chicken breast, sautéed mushrooms, or simply enjoying the pasta with just a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil - this versatile dish offers endless possibilities.

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p>One-Pot Pasta not only saves time but also reduces kitchen mess since all components are prepared in one vessel. By following these straightforward steps and utilizing readily available ingredients like those mentioned above, you can create a comforting yet flavorful meal that is sure to satisfy hungry tummies. So next time you're seeking an easy yet impressive dinner option, try making One-Pot Pasta with Tomatoes; it might just become your new favorite dish!