One-Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes is a quick and easy meal that comes together in a single pot. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious and flavorful dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The combination of whole-grain pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes creates a delicious and well-balanced meal that's ready in under 30 minutes.
### Ingredients
- **Whole-Grain Pasta**: 8 oz (dry)
- **Vegetable or Chicken Broth**: 4 cups
- **Diced Tomatoes**: 1 can (14.5 oz)
- **Fresh Spinach**: 4 cups (packed)
- **Garlic**: 3 cloves (minced)
- **Olive Oil**: 1 tablespoon
- **Parmesan Cheese**: 1/2 cup (grated)
- **Salt**: to taste
- **Pepper**: to taste
- **Red Pepper Flakes (optional)**: for garnish
### Benefits
- **Whole Grains**: Whole-grain pasta provides complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- **Nutrient-Dense Veggies**: Spinach and tomatoes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- **One-Pot Convenience**: This recipe allows for easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
- **Customizable**: You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
### Instructions
1. **Cook the Pasta**:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the whole-grain pasta and vegetable or chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Spinach**:
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the fresh spinach.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are heated through.
3. **Season with Garlic and Oil**:
- Add the minced garlic and olive oil to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
4. **Finish with Cheese**:
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve and Enjoy**:
- Serve the One-Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.
### Variations
- **Protein Addition**: For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans to the pasta.
- **Different Vegetables**: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini based on your preferences.
- **Cheese Options**: Try using different types of cheese like feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella for varied flavors.
- **Herb Addition**: Sprinkle fresh basil, oregano, or parsley over the pasta for added flavor.
### Tips
- **Use a large pot or Dutch oven to ensure there's enough room for the pasta and vegetables to cook evenly.
- **Adjust the cooking time for the pasta based on the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.
- **If the pasta seems too dry after cooking, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- **Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture.
This One-Pot Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes is a delicious and nutritious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the convenience of a one-pot dish while savoring the flavors of whole grains, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese.
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