Name: One Pot Pasta with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 12 oz cherry tomatoes, cut in half; ½ medium onion, very thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, very thinly sliced; 4 oz baby spinach; ⅓ cup chopped parsley; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ¾ tsp salt or to taste; ¾ tsp pepper or to taste; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or to taste; 4 cups water; 1 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

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Whenever I find myself in a culinary rut, I turn to my comforting One Pot Pasta with Spinach. There’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a meal that only requires one pot, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the food and less time cleaning up after it. Picture this: a busy weeknight, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This dish brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and hearty spaghetti in a simple, delightful meal that’s as nourishing as it is quick to prepare. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a rainy evening, and the warmth of the pasta cooking on the stove filled my home with a comforting aroma. It felt like a warm hug on a plate.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This One Pot Pasta with Spinach Stands Out

Comfort in Simplicity

There’s a unique charm in the simplicity of the One Pot Pasta with Spinach. The beauty lies in how the flavors meld together as they cook, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. You don’t have to worry about overcomplicating things; just toss in everything and let the magic happen.

Quick and Easy

Who doesn’t love a quick meal? This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something homemade yet don’t have much time. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a stunning dish that everyone will love.

Healthy and Nutritious

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of spinach and cherry tomatoes adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome meal. It’s the kind of dish that you can feel good about serving to your family.

Versatile and Customizable

I love how adaptable this recipe is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to add some chicken or maybe some other vegetables? Go for it! The One Pot Pasta with Spinach serves as a fantastic base for endless variations.

Minimal Cleanup

Let’s be honest: one pot means less cleanup! After a long day, the last thing you want to deal with is a mountain of dirty dishes. With this recipe, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish makes for excellent leftovers. I often make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner on those busy days.

Main Ingredients for One Pot Pasta with Spinach

The ingredients for the One Pot Pasta with Spinach are a harmonious blend that creates a delightful symphony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a key role, ensuring that the pasta is rich, nourishing, and satisfying. The heart of this dish is undoubtedly the spaghetti, which serves as the perfect vessel for capturing all the tasty juices from the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Together, they create a vibrant and colorful meal that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

8 oz spaghetti – A classic pasta choice that absorbs the flavors beautifully.
12 oz cherry tomatoes, cut in half – Bursting with sweetness, they add a fresh and juicy element.
½ medium onion, very thinly sliced – This aromatic base enriches the dish with depth.
2 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced – Essential for adding robust flavor.
4 oz baby spinach – Nutritious and bright, it boosts the health factor.
⅓ cup chopped parsley – A fresh herb that enhances flavor and adds a pop of color.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Provides richness and helps to meld the flavors.
¾ tsp salt or to taste – Essential for seasoning.
¾ tsp pepper or to taste – Adds subtle heat.
¼ tsp red pepper flakes or to taste – For those who enjoy a kick of spice.
4 cups water – The cooking medium that brings everything together.
1 cup grated Parmesan (optional) – Adds a creamy richness if desired.

Making This One Pot Pasta with Spinach

Cooking the One Pot Pasta with Spinach is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll love how easy it is to transform simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Follow these steps closely to ensure a perfectly cooked pasta dish.

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a large pot or a Dutch oven, combine the spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, onion, garlic, spinach, parsley, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Add 4 cups of water to the pot. This will be the cooking liquid that will infuse the pasta with flavor. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Keep an eye on it, as the bubbling action will start to soften the spaghetti.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. You want a gentle simmer so that the pasta can cook without becoming mushy. Uncover the pot and let it cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.
Occasionally stir the pasta, ensuring that it doesn’t stick together. The spaghetti should begin to absorb the liquid as it cooks, thickening the sauce.
After about 8 minutes, check the consistency of the pasta. If it’s tender and cooked through, it’s time to finish. If not, continue simmering for a couple more minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
Once the pasta has cooked to your liking, stir in the optional Parmesan. This will melt into the dish, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy your homemade One Pot Pasta with Spinach!

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the pasta: As it cooks, keep stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
Season to taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings based on your personal preference.
Adding proteins: Feel free to incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or lentils for a boost in nutrition.
Leftover water: If you find the pasta is absorbing too much water, adding a bit more can help ensure everything cooks evenly.
Freshness matters: Using fresh ingredients, especially the spinach, will elevate the overall taste of your pasta.

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to make the One Pot Pasta with Spinach your own. Here are some ideas for customization that can delight your taste buds:

Add different vegetables: You can include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to switch up the flavors.
Try different pasta: Use penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
Use vegetable broth: Instead of water, using vegetable broth can add another layer of flavor.
Make it creamy: For an ultra-rich dish, stir in some cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end.
Experiment with herbs: Add basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Serve as a salad: Once cooled, you can enjoy this pasta as a cold salad by adding a splash of vinaigrette.
Cheese variety: Swap out the Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

What Complements This One Pot Pasta with Spinach

When it comes to enjoying the One Pot Pasta with Spinach, there are plenty of delightful pairings and serving suggestions to consider. Here are some ideas:

Garlic bread: A side of warm garlic bread is a classic companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Green salad: Pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette can balance the meal nicely.
Wine pairing: A chilled glass of white wine can enhance the flavors, making for an elegant dining experience.
Meal prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Store in airtight containers and enjoy it throughout the week.
Lunch or dinner: It’s versatile enough to serve as a delightful lunch or a comforting dinner option.
Picnic-ready: This dish can be enjoyed cold, making it a fantastic option for picnics or lunch on the go.

FAQ

Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a fantastic alternative that will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your One Pot Pasta with Spinach. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it cooks to ensure it reaches the perfect al dente texture.

Yes, you can make the One Pot Pasta with Spinach vegan easily. Simply omit the optional Parmesan cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The dish will still be delicious and packed with flavor without the cheese.

To store leftovers of the One Pot Pasta with Spinach, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to rehydrate the pasta as needed.

Definitely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Conclusion

The One Pot Pasta with Spinach is a wonderful blend of flavors and simplicity, making it a go-to meal for busy evenings. It’s not just quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful taste experience that you and your family will love. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by adding your personal touch. Enjoy the pleasure of cooking and the satisfaction of sharing a homemade meal!