Mediterranean One Pot Pasta: Quick & Easy Recipe

Mediterranean One Pot Pasta: the weeknight dinner savior you didn’t know you needed! Imagine this: a single pot, bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, ready in under 30 minutes. No mountains of dishes, just pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Are you intrigued? I certainly hope so!

While the exact origins of one-pot pasta are debated, the concept of cooking everything together in a single vessel is as old as cooking itself. Across the Mediterranean, resourceful cooks have long combined grains, vegetables, and proteins in simple, flavorful stews and braises. This recipe draws inspiration from those traditions, bringing together the bright, fresh tastes of the region in a modern, convenient way.

So, why is Mediterranean One Pot Pasta such a hit? It’s simple: it’s incredibly easy, undeniably flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. The pasta absorbs all the delicious juices from the tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy, satisfying sauce without any extra effort. People love the vibrant combination of flavors – the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the saltiness of olives, the freshness of basil – all working together in perfect harmony. Plus, the minimal cleanup is a major win for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables:

Before we dive into the one-pot magic, let’s get our veggies prepped. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way!

1. Chop the Onion: Peel the onion and chop it into small, even pieces. You don’t want them too big, as they need to cook down nicely and become tender. Aim for pieces about 1/4 inch in size.
2. Mince the Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. Mincing releases the garlic’s aromatic oils, which will infuse the entire dish with flavor. If you don’t have a garlic press, you can finely chop it with a knife.
3. Chop the Bell Peppers: Wash the red and yellow bell peppers. Remove the stems, seeds, and membranes. Then, chop them into bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the chopped onion.
4. Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, drain them well. Then, chop them into smaller pieces. This will help them distribute their intense flavor throughout the pasta.
5. Halve the Olives: If your Kalamata olives are whole, pit them and cut them in half. This makes them easier to eat and allows their briny flavor to mingle with the other ingredients.

The One-Pot Cooking Process:

Now for the fun part! This is where all the flavors come together in one glorious pot. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity – minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want the onion to become translucent and slightly sweet.
2. Add Garlic and Bell Peppers: Add the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the bell peppers are slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Chickpeas: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained – we want that flavorful juice!), drained and rinsed chickpeas, halved Kalamata olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer). Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to start with a smaller amount of salt, as the olives and feta cheese will also add saltiness to the dish.
5. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
6. Add the Pasta: Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more broth or water to cover the pasta completely.
7. Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for the time indicated on the pasta package (usually around 8-12 minutes), or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
8. Check for Doneness: After the recommended cooking time, check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). If the pasta is not cooked through, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking frequently. If the pasta is cooked but there is still too much liquid in the pot, remove the lid and cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has evaporated.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

We’re almost there! A few final touches will elevate this one-pot pasta to a truly memorable meal. These additions add freshness, flavor, and a beautiful visual appeal.

1. Stir in Feta Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese. The feta will melt slightly and create a creamy, tangy sauce.
2. Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a burst of freshness and a vibrant green color to the dish.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Mediterranean One Pot Pasta immediately while it’s hot and flavorful.
4. Optional Garnish: Garnish with extra feta cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the pasta. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Tips and Variations:

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pot along with the vegetables.
• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make it Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or marjoram.
• Add a Splash of Wine: For a richer flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the pot along with the broth.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover Mediterranean One Pot Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little broth or water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Mediterranean One Pot Pasta recipe! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean One Pot Pasta isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a vibrant, flavorful journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, all cooked in a single pot! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish that bursts with fresh, healthy ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The pasta absorbs all the delicious juices from the tomatoes, olives, and herbs, creating a rich and deeply flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to every strand. It’s a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Roasted bell peppers would add a lovely sweetness, while artichoke hearts would bring a tangy, sophisticated touch. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese just before serving elevates the dish even further, adding a salty, creamy counterpoint to the other flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* As a Main Course: Serve this pasta as a complete and satisfying meal. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette would complement it perfectly.
* As a Side Dish: This pasta also makes a fantastic side dish to grilled fish, chicken, or lamb.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
* Vegan Option: Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
* Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

I’ve made this Mediterranean One Pot Pasta countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great option for meal prepping – the flavors actually deepen and improve overnight!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to customize to your own preferences. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What were your favorite additions? Share your photos and comments below. Let’s create a community of one-pot pasta lovers! I can’t wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create with this simple yet delightful recipe. Happy cooking!