If you crave a quick and tasty meal, try my One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Pasta. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients, but packs a punch in flavor. Imagine juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of spice coming together in one pot. It’s perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. Ready to make dinner a breeze? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or fettuccine
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
For this dish, you can choose either spaghetti or fettuccine. Both types work well. I love using fresh aromatics like onion, garlic, and basil. They add so much flavor. Red pepper flakes give the dish a nice kick. If you want it spicier, add more. Crushed tomatoes create a rich sauce, and vegetable broth adds depth. A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Dried oregano is a must for that classic Italian flavor.
Optional Ingredients
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– Side dish suggestions: salad or garlic bread
If you want to elevate your meal, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. It melts beautifully and enhances the flavor. Pairing this pasta with a side salad or garlic bread makes it even better. A crisp salad adds freshness, and garlic bread offers a nice crunch. These extras round out your meal perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sautéing the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for one more minute. Stir it often so the garlic doesn’t burn. You’ll notice a lovely smell filling your kitchen!
Combining Base Ingredients
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and the vegetable broth. Add the sugar, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Mix everything well. This will create a rich and flavorful base for your pasta.
Cooking the Pasta
Now, turn up the heat to bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, add your spaghetti or fettuccine. Give it a good stir to make sure all the pasta is submerged in the sauce. This step is key for even cooking.
Simmering to Perfection
Lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be al dente, and the sauce will thicken nicely. This is where the magic happens!
Finishing Touches
After the pasta is cooked, take the pot off the heat. Gently fold in the torn basil leaves. This adds a fresh flavor. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more salt or pepper can make a big difference!
Serving the Dish
Serve the pasta hot from the pot. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add a few extra basil leaves for color and taste. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Pasta
To cook pasta al dente, follow these steps:
– Boil water in a large pot.
– Add salt to the water before the pasta.
– Stir the pasta often while it cooks.
– Test the pasta a minute before the time is up.
For spice lovers, tweak the red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon. Add more if you like it hotter. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Enhancing Flavors
Fresh herbs make a big difference. Toss in extra basil when you serve the dish. You can also add parsley for a bright touch.
Quality ingredients matter. Use good olive oil and fresh tomatoes when possible. These choices impact the taste.
Making it a Complete Meal
Pair this pasta with a fresh side salad. A crunchy salad balances the meal well. Garlic bread is another easy side. It adds comfort and goes great with pasta.
For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in a pot over low heat. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can easily boost your pasta with protein. Adding grilled chicken gives a nice flavor. Cook the chicken separately, then slice and mix it in before serving. Shrimp is another great option. Sauté shrimp until pink and toss them in for a seafood twist.
If you prefer vegetarian options, chickpeas are an excellent choice. They add protein and a hearty texture. Just drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free pasta, you have options. Look for gluten-free spaghetti or fettuccine. Many brands taste just as good as regular pasta. Cook it according to package directions.
Want to make this dish vegan? Skip the Parmesan cheese. You can replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Also, ensure the vegetable broth is vegan.
Flavor Experimentation
Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors. Roasted vegetables can enhance the dish. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Roast them first, then mix them in before serving.
Infuse the dish with different herbs or spices. Try thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika. Just a pinch can change the whole vibe of your pasta.
Storage Info
Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, use a pot or microwave to reheat. For the pot, add a splash of water. Heat it on low, stirring often until warm. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Allow the pasta to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting. Reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to restore moisture. Stir often to heat evenly. Enjoy your tasty pasta later!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta types. Good options include penne or rotini. These shapes hold sauce well. You can pick any pasta you like, just adjust the cook time.
How can I make it less spicy?
To reduce spice, cut back on red pepper flakes. You can also add more tomatoes or broth. These will tone down the heat. Another option is to add a dollop of cream or yogurt. This will help cool the dish.
What can I serve with One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Pasta?
This pasta pairs well with a side salad. A fresh green salad complements the dish nicely. You can also serve it with crusty garlic bread. Bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep takes about 10 minutes. Cooking time is around 15 minutes. So, the total time is about 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy for busy nights.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, warm it on the stove. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
This blog post covered everything you need for a tasty One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Pasta. We talked about the main ingredients, like pasta, tomatoes, and herbs. You learned how to cook the pasta perfectly and add flavor with simple spices. I offered tips for making it a full meal, like side dishes and protein options. Remember, you can adjust flavors as you like. With the right methods, leftovers will taste great too. Enjoy cooking this dish and sharing it with others!
