One-Pot Budget-Friendly Pasta (Print Version)

A simple one-pot pasta combining fresh vegetables and herbs for quick, flavorful dinners.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz dried penne or fusilli pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with juices
07 - 3.5 oz baby spinach

→ Liquids

08 - 3 cups vegetable broth

→ Dairy and Seasonings

09 - 2 oz grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
12 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes, optional
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
02 - Stir in diced zucchini and red bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth to the pot. Sprinkle in dried Italian herbs, chili flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
04 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
05 - Uncover the pot, stir in baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until spinach wilts and cheese melts.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Minimal cleanup with just one pot to wash
  • Budget-friendly ingredients that don't sacrifice flavor
  • Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Packed with colorful vegetables for nutrition and texture
  • Easily customizable based on what you have on hand
  • Perfect for busy weeknights when time is short
02 -
  • Use high-quality vegetable broth for deeper flavor
  • Don't overcook the pasta—it should be al dente with a slight bite
  • Reserve some pasta cooking liquid in case you need to loosen the sauce
  • Grate Parmesan fresh for the best melting quality and flavor
  • Let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator
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