This Mediterranean One Pot Pasta is packed with tasty veggies and bright flavors! With just one pot, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.
I love how easy this dish is! Just toss everything in the pot and let it cook. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Who doesn’t like a quick cleanup after dinner? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti or Linguine: Both are great choices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using whole wheat pasta for added texture and nutrients, or gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten altogether.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work perfectly, but you can use fresh tomatoes if you have them. Just chop them up and you might want to add a bit of extra liquid to balance it out.
Vegetable Broth: Instead of broth, you can use water for a lighter option. If you want more flavor, chicken broth or homemade vegetable stock also does the trick.
Black Olives: If you’re not a fan of black olives, green olives are a fine substitute. You could also leave them out entirely for a less salty flavor.
Artichoke Hearts: While canned or frozen artichokes are convenient, fresh artichokes can add an impressive touch if you’re up for the prep work. Just make sure to cook them well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano gives a nice kick if you want something tangier. Nutritional yeast can also be a great dairy-free option.
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Without Burning Them?
Sautéing onions and garlic creates a flavorful base for this dish, but they can burn easily. First, keep the heat on medium—too high and they’ll scorch. Here’s a simple way to get it right:
- Use a good amount of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan, which helps with even cooking.
- Add the onions first and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent.
- Once the onions soften, add the garlic and stir frequently for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be sure to pay extra attention at this stage; garlic can burn quickly!
By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious base for your one pot pasta that sets the stage for all those Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently until the onion turns translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
2. Combining the Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add in the main ingredients. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, spaghetti, sliced olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then give everything a good stir to combine.
3. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure the pasta is cooking evenly, until it’s al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Final Touches:
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and creamy.
5. Serving It Up:
Your Mediterranean One Pot Pasta is ready! Serve it warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a nutritious alternative and works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may take a minute or two longer to cook, so check for doneness during the simmering step.
What if I Don’t Have Artichoke Hearts?
No worries! If you can’t find artichoke hearts, you can substitute them with extra olives or even use jarred roasted red peppers for a similar flavor and texture. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot.
How to Store Leftover Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the pasta, and warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. The flavor will still be delicious, and you’ll enjoy the Mediterranean flair without any animal products!
