One-Pot Veggie Pasta Delight

Introduction: In search of a simple, affordable, and delicious meal that requires minimal cleanup? Look no further than our One-Pot Veggie Pasta Delight! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner option without breaking the bank. Let's dive into the magic of one-pot cooking with this flavorful pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (any shape works; penne or rotini recommended)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep your ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.

2. Cook the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the veggies: Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are slightly tender.

4. Stir in the pasta and liquid: Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.

5. Simmer until pasta is cooked: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Season and serve: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your One-Pot Veggie Pasta Delight hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Why We Love This Recipe:

• Budget-friendly: Packed with affordable and versatile ingredients like pasta, canned tomatoes, and assorted veggies, this recipe won't strain your wallet.
• One-pot wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. You can also add protein like cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra boost.

Final Thoughts: Our One-Pot Veggie Pasta Delight is proof that you don't need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal. With just a few simple steps and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a flavorful pasta dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor the simplicity and goodness of one-pot cooking!