Are you ready to dive into a delightful culinary experience that combines simplicity and flavor in one delicious bite? Introducing the ultimate “One Pan Pasta” — a game-changing meal that’s ready in just under half an hour and saves you from the mountain of dishes. This dish is all about fresh ingredients, quick cooking, and mouthwatering results!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Clean-Up: With only one pan needed, say goodbye to a pile of dishes after dinner.
- Quick and Nutrient-Rich: From kitchen to table in less than 30 minutes, packed with vibrant veggies and herbs.
- Customizable: Easily tweak this recipe for dietary needs or just to use up what you have in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this one pan pasta lies in its simplicity and vibrant array of fresh ingredients. Each item plays a special role, from the rich aromas of garlic to the zesty kick of crushed red pepper, ensuring a wonderfully balanced dish.
- Linguine: Offers a slightly thicker texture than spaghetti, perfect for absorbing all the lovely flavors.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These gems burst with sweetness, adding a fresh contrast to the dish.
- Baby Spinach: Provides a nutritious touch and lovely color.
- Onion: Finely sliced for a subtle sweetness that complements other flavors.
- Garlic: A must-have for that irresistible aroma and depth of taste.
- Fresh Basil: Brings a fragrant, herbaceous note to the pasta.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a smooth, rich finish to the overall flavor profile.
- Crushed Red Pepper: For a little heat and excitement in every bite.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: (Optional) For a cheesy finish if that’s your thing!
- Boiling Water: Essential to ensure everything cooks just right, transforming your ingredients into a deliciously cohesive dish.
Variations
One of the best features of this one pan pasta is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and modify the recipe to match your personal dietary needs or simply what you have on hand.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish.
- Vegan Option: Omit the parmesan cheese or add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Extra Creamy: Replace some of the water with milk or cream for a richer sauce.
- Swap Veggies: Toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables or swap out what you prefer not to use.
How to Make One Pan Pasta
Step 1: Start with Fresh Ingredients
In a large deep pan, arrange your linguine, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, sliced onions, and garlic. The magic begins here, as each ingredient lands in one cozy pan, ready to mingle and create harmony.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Heat
Drizzle that luscious olive oil over the top and sprinkle with crushed red pepper and salt. Pour in the boiling water — this step is critical as it helps everything to cook simultaneously, ensuring none of the precious flavors escape!
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil and keep it cooking on medium heat for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the ingredients to absorb the water and transform it into a delightful sauce. This is where it all comes together!
Step 4: Final Touches and Serve
Off the heat, stir in parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. This last touch adds depth and a final burst of flavor that brings the entire dish together. Serve it warm and get ready to receive all the praises at the table!
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Pasta
- Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking by tasting your pasta at the 8-minute mark. Remember, it will continue to soften slightly with the residual heat.
- Flavor Infusion: Use a good quality olive oil to maximize the flavor and enrich every bite.
- Herb Boost: More basil equals more flavor – don’t hold back!
- Vegetable Variety: Add vegetables that cook in similar time frames to keep the texture consistent.
How to Serve One Pan Pasta
Garnishes
Bring out the vibrancy of each serving with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and an extra touch of fresh basil. These garnishes not only add flavor but also a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This one pan pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Both options offer a nice contrast in texture and taste, complementing the pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pasta in shallow bowls to capture all the sauce goodness. Dress the dish with a slice of lemon on the side for a refreshing touch and an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their delightful flavor for about 4-5 days, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch option.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t typically recommended as the pasta may become mushy. However, if you choose to freeze, ensure it’s properly sealed to minimize freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through, offering that fresh-cooked taste all over again.
FAQs
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Can I use whole wheat pasta for the one pan pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and water slightly as it may require more liquid and longer cooking.
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Is there a substitute for fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil can be used. However, remember that fresh basil provides more vibrant flavor and aroma.
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How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks. The olive oil also helps to keep everything nice and separate, infusing flavor as it prevents sticking.
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What if the dish is too spicy?
If you find the dish too spicy, next time reduce the amount of crushed red pepper or omit it entirely for a milder version.
Final Thoughts
This one pan pasta is a dish that’s as delightful to cook as it is to savor. With its adaptability and rich array of flavors, it invites creativity and promises satisfaction. Give it a try and let every bite bring a smile as you marvel at just how simple, quick, and delicious dinner can be!
Print
One Pan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This One Pan Pasta is a quick, delicious, and wholesome meal that requires minimal cleanup. Combining fresh vegetables, fragrant garlic, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting pasta dish with vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- 2 ounces baby spinach
- 1 small onion finely sliced
- 3 garlic cloves finely sliced
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheese & Liquids
- 2 ounces parmesan cheese grated (optional)
- 4 cups water boiling
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and make sure vegetables are sliced and herbs are chopped for easy use during cooking.
- Combine in Pan: In a large deep pan, add the linguine, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, sliced onions, garlic, and basil. Drizzle the olive oil on top, then season with crushed red pepper and salt.
- Add Water and Cook: Pour boiling water into the pan, ensuring ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat slightly and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally with tongs, until most of the liquid evaporates and the pasta absorbs the flavors, creating a sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired. Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra basil or cheese if preferred.
Notes
- Adaptation: This recipe is inspired by Martha Stewart.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container; they last 4-5 days refrigerated.
- Variations: Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free version, skip cheese for vegan, or add a splash of milk for creaminess. Replace vegetables according to preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 ounces of pasta
- Calories: 367 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 551 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
