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One-Pot Budget-Friendly Pasta

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  • Author: mohamed
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting and budget-friendly pasta dish cooked in one pot, featuring vibrant vegetables, creamy Parmesan, and simple seasonings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz dried penne or fusilli pasta
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with juices
  • 3.5 oz baby spinach
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 oz grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes, optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, then add diced zucchini and bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. Combine uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth into the pot. Sprinkle in dried herbs, optional chili flakes, and salt and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  5. Finish with baby spinach and grated Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and cheese melts.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  7. Serve in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan.

Notes

Can be made ahead and stored. For an oven-baked version, transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg