This easy Mediterranean one-pot pasta is full of flavor and colorful veggies like tomatoes and spinach. It cooks all in one pot, making clean-up a breeze!
I love how all the flavors meld together, and it’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weekday dinner when I want something yummy without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti or linguine for this recipe, but feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thicker pasta may take a bit longer.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use fresh tomatoes—about four medium ones, chopped. Just remember to add a bit more broth to compensate for the juice.
Artichoke Hearts: These add a nice touch! If you’re not a fan, consider using roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead. They’ll give an extra pop of flavor.
Olives: Pitted black olives are my go-to. Green olives can work too, offering a different flavor. If olives aren’t your thing, you can skip them altogether or use capers for a briny kick.
Stock: Vegetable or chicken broth can be swapped with low-sodium options to control the salt level. You can even use homemade broth if you have it on hand!
How Do I Prevent the Pasta from Sticking Together?
Keeping pasta from sticking during cooking can be a challenge. Here’s how to make it work:
- Stir the mixture well right after adding the pasta. It helps to coat the pasta in the broth and prevents it from clumping.
- Cook on medium-low heat and stir frequently as it simmers. This not only prevents sticking but also helps to evenly cook the pasta.
- If your pasta looks too dry while cooking, add a splash more broth or water. A little liquid goes a long way!
With these tips, you’ll end up with a delightful Mediterranean one-pot pasta that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Mediterranean One-Pot Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal option. In total, you’ll be looking at about 22 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Gather all your ingredients and prepare them as needed. Make sure to drain and quarter the artichoke hearts, mince the garlic, and chop the onion. This will make your cooking process smooth and efficient!
2. Combine Everything in a Pot:
In a large pot or deep skillet, combine the spaghetti, diced tomatoes with their juice, drained artichoke hearts, black olives, sliced red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, olive oil, and vegetable broth. Stir everything well so the pasta is submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over!
4. Simmer the Pasta:
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer uncovered. Be sure to stir frequently to keep the pasta from sticking together. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
5. Check for Doneness:
After about 10-12 minutes, taste the pasta to see if it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). You’ll want most of the liquid to have evaporated, but if it looks too dry, feel free to add a little more broth or water!
6. Season and Stir in Cheese:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and mixed well.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Serve your delicious Mediterranean one-pot pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy this easy, colorful, and flavorful pasta dish that makes clean-up a breeze!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may require different cooking times, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is tender.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
This dish is already vegetarian-friendly! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
