This Easy Mediterranean One-Pot Pasta brings you flavors of the sun with olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs all in one dish! It’s colorful, tasty, and best of all, clean-up is a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend spaghetti or linguine for this recipe, but feel free to substitute with any long pasta you have on hand, like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If you don’t have canned, fresh tomatoes work too—just chop them and use about 2 cups. Alternatively, you can use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
Onion and Garlic: Red onion gives a hint of sweetness, but white or yellow onions can work well too. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic if needed—use about 1 teaspoon.
Olives: Kalamata or black olives bring a hearty flavor. If you’re not a fan, green olives or capers can substitute nicely. They pack a punch too!
Artichokes: Marinated artichoke hearts add a lovely tang. If they’re not available, canned artichokes will do, just rinse them well!
Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish or chicken broth for more flavor. Homemade broth adds an extra punch, but store-bought works perfectly!
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly in One Pot?
Cooking pasta in one pot is all about timing and proper stirring. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all ingredients in your pot before adding broth.
- Ensure the broth covers the pasta; this helps it absorb all the flavors.
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Start checking the pasta at 10 minutes; if it’s not quite tender, let it cook a couple more minutes while stirring.
- Let it sit off the heat for a minute to enhance the flavors even more.
And there you have it—perfectly cooked pasta with tons of Mediterranean flavor, all without the hassle of multiple pots and pans!
Easy Mediterranean One-Pot Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
- Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz or 410 g) diced tomatoes with juices
- Onion: 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, thinly sliced
- Olives: 1/2 cup (120 ml) kalamata or black olives, pitted
- Artichokes: 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
- Broth: 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook, making it a total of just 22 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a large pot or deep skillet, add your uncooked pasta, canned diced tomatoes (with the juices), sliced red onion, garlic, olives, artichoke hearts, olive oil, oregano, thyme, and a nice sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
2. Add Broth:
Pour the broth over the ingredients in the pot. Make sure most of the pasta is covered by the liquid. Give everything another good stir to mix it all in.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Turn on the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it as it heats up—it won’t take long!
4. Simmer the Pasta:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently to keep the pasta from sticking, for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Adjust Seasonings:
Taste your pasta and add a bit more salt and pepper if you think it needs it. This is your chance to personalize the flavor!
6. Let It Rest:
Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is key for bringing all those yummy tastes into harmony.
7. Serve It Up:
Dish out the pasta into bowls and top with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It looks beautiful and tastes amazing!
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your easy Mediterranean one-pot pasta. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, with just one pot to clean, you’ll love the easy clean-up! Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option. If using gluten-free pasta, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary, and follow the package instructions for the best results.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute. It has a cheesy flavor and can be sprinkled on top just like Parmesan. You can also use any grated cheese you have on hand, like pecorino or a vegan alternative.
