If the idea of a dish that requires minimal effort with maximum flavor excites you, then this One Pan Pasta is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a meal where everything cooks in one pan, melding into a beautifully creamy and flavorful dish without the hassle of juggling multiple pots and pans. Your kitchen cleanup just got a whole lot easier!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and tomatoes gives each bite a burst of deliciousness.
- Customizable: This dish is a canvas for creativity; you can effortlessly swap ingredients to suit your taste or diet.
- Quick and Simple: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the ingredients: they’re as simple as they are essential, playing pivotal roles in crafting this delectable One Pan Pasta. Each component brings unique flavors and textures to make this dish a hit.
- Linguine: Choose your favorite brand for a bite that holds up well during cooking; it absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet juiciness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
- Baby Spinach: Not only nutritious, but it also wilts beautifully, adding a touch of green to brighten the dish.
- Fresh Basil: This herb brings a fresh, aromatic note that’s simply irresistible when paired with tomatoes.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the pasta with a strong, delightful aroma as it cooks.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional but highly recommended for that final indulgent, cheesy touch.
Variations
This One Pan Pasta is fantastically versatile. Feel free to swap out ingredients or adapt the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free pasta and it’s just as satisfying.
- Vegan Twist: Replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of milk instead of some of the boiling water to make it extra creamy.
How to Make One Pan Pasta
Step 1: Assemble Your Ingredients
In a large, deep pan, gather your ingredients: linguine, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced onions, garlic, and fresh basil. This prep work ensures that everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Start Cooking
Pour boiling water over the ingredients in the pan, then drizzle with olive oil and seasoning with salt and crushed red pepper. Bring it to a boil over medium heat and let the magic happen.
Step 3: Final Touch and Serve
As the water reduces to create a luscious sauce, stir in grated parmesan and more fresh basil. Serve this delight immediately while it’s still warm and enjoy every bite.
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Pasta
- Ingredient Prep: Slice veggies in advance to make the cooking process flow smoothly and keep everything cooked evenly.
- Watch the Pan: Stir occasionally and keep a close eye on the liquid to avoid overcooking the pasta as the sauce thickens.
- Heat Control: Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady simmer without boiling over.
- Herb Freshness: Add basil last to maintain its fresh, vibrant flavor and beautiful green color.
How to Serve One Pan Pasta
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra grated parmesan or pecorino on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves. The cheese melts slightly, adding a creamy layer to your pasta, while the basil refreshes every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a simple green salad or crunchy garlic bread for the perfect, well-rounded meal. The salad adds a fresh crunch, while the bread helps scoop up every saucy morsel.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your One Pan Pasta directly from the pan for a rustic, family-style presentation. Alternatively, twirl individual portions onto plates or into bowls for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to four to five days, making for an easy, ready-to-go meal on busy days.
Freezing
While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in individual portions. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to revive the sauce, or microwave until warmed through. Stirring occasionally helps distribute heat evenly.
FAQs
-
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta that requires similar cooking time as linguine will work. Just adjust the liquid level if using thicker pastas.
-
What other herbs work well in this dish?
Fresh oregano or parsley can be used alongside basil or as a replacement for variety in flavor.
-
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients and store them separately until ready to cook, or portion cooked pasta for quick reheating throughout the week.
-
How can I add more protein to the One Pan Pasta?
Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. Simply stir them in towards the end of the cooking process.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a time-saver and a flavor deliverer all in one. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see just how delightful and effortless making a delicious dish can be. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again!
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-American
Description
A vibrant and easy-to-make one-pan pasta dish that combines fresh cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, garlic, and basil into a flavorful meal cooked entirely in one pot. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
8 ounces linguineVegetables
1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced in half2 ounces baby spinach
1 small onion finely sliced
3 garlic cloves finely sliced
1 handful fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
Liquids & Oils
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil4 cups boiling water
Seasonings
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheese (optional)
2 ounces parmesan cheese gratedInstructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather and slice the cherry tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chop the basil leaves. Measure out the pasta and seasonings.
- Add everything to the pan: In a large deep skillet or wide saucepan, combine the linguine, cherry tomatoes, spinach, sliced onions, garlic, basil, olive oil, crushed red pepper, and salt.
- Cook with water: Pour the boiling water into the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, or until most of the water has evaporated, forming a sauce, and the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Finish the dish: Remove from heat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Recipe is adapted from Martha Stewart.
- Storing leftovers in an airtight container for 4-5 days in the fridge works well.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free; skip cheese or use vegan cheese for vegan version; add milk to make it creamier; swap vegetables based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 ounces of pasta per person
- Calories: 367 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 551 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
