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One pan pasta is the ultimate quick and easy meal for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and the freedom to toss in your favorite vegetables, it transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, satisfying dinner. This recipe has become a go-to in my house whenever time is tight but I still want something fresh and flavorful on the table.
I first tried this during a hectic week and was amazed how such a simple recipe felt gourmet enough for company yet easy enough for weeknights. My kids now ask for it regularly especially when I throw in extra spinach and tomatoes.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Linguine: eight ounces provides a perfect texture that absorbs the flavors well look for good quality durum wheat pasta
- Cherry tomatoes: one pint sliced in half adds sweetness and a slightly tangy burst choose firm and vibrant tomatoes for best taste
- Baby spinach: two ounces contributes a mild earthiness and nutritional boost fresh and crisp leaves work best
- Small onion: finely sliced builds a subtle sweetness and depth pick a firm onion without spots
- Garlic cloves: three finely sliced infuses warmth and sharpness fresh garlic bulbs have the best punch
- Fresh basil: one handful roughly chopped lends a bright herbal note harvest just before use for maximum aroma
- Extra virgin olive oil: two tablespoons enriches the sauce with fruity richness select one labeled cold-pressed for quality
- Crushed red pepper: half teaspoon adds gentle heat adjust to taste based on spice preference
- Salt: half teaspoon essential for seasoning and balancing flavors
- Parmesan cheese: two ounces grated optional for a savory nutty finish choose Parmesan Reggiano for authenticity
- Boiling water: four cups cooks the pasta and helps create the sauce by emulsifying the oils and vegetable juices
How to Make It
- Sauté the Vegetables and Pasta:
- Start by placing linguine in a large deep pan along with sliced cherry tomatoes baby spinach sliced onion garlic and fresh basil. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top and sprinkle crushed red pepper and salt. This step layers the aromatics and veggies so their flavors mingle as the pasta cooks.
- Add Boiling Water and Cook:
- Pour four cups of boiling water into the pan making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and cook for about eight to ten minutes. Stir occasionally with tongs to separate the pasta and evenly distribute heat. The goal is for the liquid to reduce until nearly evaporated leaving behind a light flavorful sauce coated on the pasta strands.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you enjoy a cheesy herbal boost. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the simple yet rich flavors that develop through this one-pot method.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the fresh basil. Adding it just before serving really elevates the pasta to something special. I remember a time when I had no fresh herbs at home and tried it without basil — the dish was good but felt incomplete. Now, I always make sure to have basil on hand. It’s become the winning detail that turns meals into memories.
Flavor Boosters
Storing this pasta is straightforward. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will absorb more sauce over time so if it seems dry when reheating add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to regain its creamy texture. This meal is great for packing into lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or sparkling water with a lemon wedge. For a heartier meal add grilled chicken shrimp or toasted pine nuts on top for texture and protein boost.
Creative Twists
If you prefer gluten-free pasta any good-quality gluten-free linguine or similar shaped pasta works well here. For a vegan version skip the parmesan and consider adding nutritional yeast to get that cheesy flavor. Feel free to swap spinach with kale or arugula and use other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety. The flexibility is one of the recipe’s biggest charms.
This one-pan pasta is a reliable weeknight favorite that combines ease with fresh flavors. Its versatility allows you to tailor it in countless delicious ways.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, feel free to swap linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or gluten-free options to suit your preference.
- → How can I make it dairy-free?
Simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
- → Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Absolutely, you can include bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or any veggies you like for extra flavor and texture.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they typically keep well for 4-5 days.
- → Can I make the sauce creamier?
Yes, add a splash of milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of some of the water for a creamier consistency.