Easy One-Pot Pasta: Tom’s Kitchen Lifesaver for His First Apartment

Tom, this one’s for you! We heard you just moved into your first apartment in New Jersey with only pasta and random cans in your kitchen. This easy one-pot pasta recipe will turn your empty kitchen into a cozy home in no time. It’s perfect for new cooks like you who want a quick, tasty meal without the fuss.

You’ll love how simple this recipe is, Tom. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious pasta dish using basic ingredients. No fancy cookware needed – just one pot and you’re good to go! Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe some friends) with your new cooking skills.

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy one-pot pasta:

• 8 ounces dry pasta (your choice of shape)
• 8 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small zucchini, chopped and quartered
• 3 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cup pasta sauce
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 3 ounces fresh spinach

You can use gluten-free or regular pasta, whichever you prefer. Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand.

Don’t forget to grab some grated cheese for topping if you like. Parmesan or mozzarella work great!

Instructions

Get a large pot or deep pan ready. Put the uncooked pasta in it.

Add all the other ingredients except the spinach. Mix everything well.

Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-14 minutes until the pasta is al dente.

Remember to stir every 2 minutes. This keeps things from sticking to the bottom.

Check if the pasta is done based on the package instructions. Different types of pasta cook at different speeds.

When the pasta is ready, turn off the heat. Add the spinach and fold it in gently.

Let the spinach wilt from the heat of the pasta.

Your one-pot meal is ready! Scoop it into bowls and add any toppings you like.

Enjoy your meal right away for the best taste. If you have leftovers, they’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

Can’t find some ingredients? No worries! You can easily swap things out in this flexible one-pot pasta recipe.

Pasta: Use any shape you like – penne, rotini, or shells work great.

Veggies: Switch up the zucchini for bell peppers or eggplant. No mushrooms? Try adding carrots or broccoli instead.

Protein boost: Toss in some canned beans, chickpeas, or pre-cooked chicken for extra staying power.

Sauce options: Your favorite jarred pasta sauce works, but you can also use canned crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs.

Make it cheesy: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella at the end for a gooey finish.

Herb it up: Add fresh basil or oregano for a flavor punch.

Spice things up: Like it hot? Double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Remember, cooking is all about making it your own. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make this pasta your own! Try swapping in different veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. You can also add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.

Don’t forget to stir often. This helps the pasta cook evenly and keeps it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Use a large pot with high sides. This gives you plenty of room to mix everything without spills.

Save some pasta water before draining. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash to thin it out.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 5 days.

To reheat, add a little water or broth to the pasta. This brings back moisture and helps loosen the sauce. Warm it in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Freeze portions for later! Let the pasta cool, then put it in freezer bags. It’ll keep for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.