This healthy one-pot pasta recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Packed with nutritious vegetables and bursting with flavor, this 35-minute meal is a low-prep, delicious option for the whole family. Minimal cleanup required – just one pot to wash!
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients for Healthy Pasta
This recipe is all about maximizing flavor and nutrients with a generous amount of vegetables. Onions, broccoli, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, and spinach contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber to this satisfying meal. Using broth instead of water enhances the taste even further.
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion
- Garlic
- Brown rice fusilli pasta
- Broccoli
- Mushrooms
- Tomatoes
- Pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)
- Low sodium stock (chicken or vegetable)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Dried oregano
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh spinach
- Parmesan cheese
Simple Tools for One-Pot Pasta
This recipe requires minimal equipment. You’ll need:
- Cutting board
- Chopping knife
- Large sauce pot or Dutch oven with lid
- Stirring utensil
Easy Steps to Delicious Healthy Pasta
This one-pot pasta recipe is incredibly simple to make:
- Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large sauce pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, then add minced garlic for one minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Add broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, stock, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well.
- Boil and Simmer: Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed. The pasta should not be soupy, but a little remaining liquid is okay as it will thicken as it sits.
- Add Spinach: Turn off the heat and stir in fresh spinach. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes to wilt the spinach.
- Serve: Remove the lid, stir, and serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Tips and FAQs for Perfect Healthy Pasta
Here are some helpful tips for making this recipe:
- Fresh vs. Dried Oregano: Use 3 teaspoons of fresh oregano for every 1 teaspoon of dried.
- Broth vs. Water: Broth adds more flavor, but water can be substituted.
- Liquidy Pasta: Ensure most of the liquid is absorbed during cooking and allow the pasta to thicken off the heat.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Gluten-free pasta works well; adjust cooking time and liquid as needed according to package directions.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Vegan Option: Omit the parmesan cheese for a vegan version.
Ingredient Substitutions for One-Pot Pasta
Feel free to customize this recipe with these substitutions:
- Onion: Use red or white onion instead of yellow.
- Garlic: Substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for 2 cloves of garlic.
- Pasta: Use any type of pasta, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
- Pasta Sauce: Experiment with different pasta sauce flavors.
Conclusion
This healthy one-pot pasta recipe is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Try it tonight!
