This Easy One-Pot Mediterranean Pasta is a quick mix of colorful veggies, olives, and tasty spices all cooked together with pasta in one pot. Just imagine the flavors dancing in your mouth!
I love how simple it is to make! Just toss everything in and let it simmer. Perfect for busy days when I want a delicious meal without a pile of dishes afterward. Who’s ready to dig in? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use spaghetti or linguine, but you can swap it for any pasta shape you like! Penne or fusilli also work great in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using a different kind.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts bring a tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using roasted red peppers for a different but delicious spin!
Kalamata Olives: These olives add great flavor. If you’re not a fan, black olives or even green olives can be a lovely substitute. Just remember to pit them first!
Vegetable Broth: I prefer vegetable broth for depth. Chicken broth is a good alternative if you don’t need it to be vegetarian. You can also use water, but the broth adds more flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Cooks Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot is all about timing and stirring! It’s essential to keep everything moving to prevent sticking. Here’s how:
- Combine all ingredients, and bring to a boil for even cooking.
- Once it’s boiling, reduce to a simmer, stirring often. This helps the pasta absorb flavors and prevents it from clumping.
- Check the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions say it’s done. It should be tender but firm!
- If it looks dry, add a splash more liquid (broth or water) to keep it creamy.
Enjoy this simple method for an easy, delicious meal with minimal cleanup!
Easy One-Pot Mediterranean Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or jarred)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean pasta dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a tasty and colorful one-pot meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine All Ingredients:
In a large deep skillet or pot, mix together the spaghetti, diced tomatoes (with their juice), artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes. Add the olive oil and pour in the vegetable broth or water. Give everything a good stir to combine.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Set the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low. This will let it simmer gently while cooking the pasta. Make sure to stir it frequently to prevent any pasta from sticking to the bottom.
3. Cook Until Tender:
Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes or until it’s al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Keep tasting the pasta to check its doneness! Add salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes everything creamy and delicious.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta onto plates or bowls, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. If you like, sprinkle on some extra Parmesan cheese for that added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, one-pot creation!
This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also makes clean-up a breeze! Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions and adjust accordingly.
What If I Don’t Have Artichoke Hearts?
No problem! If you don’t have artichoke hearts on hand, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar tangy flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. The other ingredients already provide plenty of flavor, so it’ll still be delicious!
