This quick and easy one-pot pasta dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. With fresh tomatoes and onions as the star ingredients, this pasta is both flavorful and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delicious meal that will become a household favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 250 grams of your preferred pasta (spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)
- 500 milliliters of water or vegetable broth
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Chop the tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Gather all your ingredients, making sure everything is measured and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine them with the onions and garlic.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Allow the tomatoes to cook down and release their juices, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes should be soft and starting to break down.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Add the pasta to the skillet, making sure it is evenly distributed and submerged in the tomato mixture.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the tomato mixture.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This should take about 10-12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta used.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve the pasta hot, directly from the skillet. Enjoy your quick and easy one-pot pasta with fresh tomatoes and onions!
Tips:
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, ripe tomatoes will give the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute.
- Broth for Extra Flavor: Using vegetable broth instead of water will add more depth and flavor to the dish.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese can add a unique twist to the dish.
Why This Recipe Works:
This one-pot pasta recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. The combination of fresh tomatoes and onions provides a deliciously rich and savory base, while the one-pot method makes for easy cleanup and a fuss-free cooking experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is a great go-to for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that is both comforting and impressive. The flavors meld together beautifully as the pasta cooks, absorbing the essence of the tomatoes, onions, and seasonings. This results in a cohesive and flavorful dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
In conclusion, this quick and easy one-pot pasta with fresh tomatoes and onions is a must-try. Its straightforward preparation, minimal cleanup, and delicious outcome make it a perfect choice for any night of the week. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful pasta dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!
