Growing up, Mediterranean one pot pasta was always a family favorite in our household. My mom would make it on busy weeknights when we didn’t have much time to spare, but it never felt like a rushed or compromised meal. The flavors were always so vibrant and comforting, transporting us straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
I can still remember the aroma of the garlic and herbs simmering on the stovetop, filling the entire kitchen. As soon as that unmistakable scent hit my nose, I’d come running, knowing a delicious feast was about to be served. Mom would ladle out big bowls of the Mediterranean one pot pasta, the vibrant tomatoes and olives creating a beautiful contrast against the tender noodles. We’d gather around the table, eagerly digging in and savoring every last bite.
What made this dish so special was how effortless it was to prepare, yet it delivered such incredible flavors. There was something about the way the ingredients melded together in that single pot that just elevated the entire experience. It’s a recipe I’ve carried with me all these years, and it’s become a go-to whenever I need a comforting, satisfying meal that comes together in a flash.
Table of Contents
Why This Mediterranean One Pot Pasta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
The secret to this Mediterranean one pot pasta recipe is in the layering of flavors. By sautéing the aromatics first, you build a solid flavor foundation that infuses every bite. Then, as the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it absorbs all those wonderful Mediterranean herbs and spices, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every single twirl of your fork.
But the real genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and one-pot cooking, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal at home with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look and feel like a culinary pro, without having to slave away in the kitchen for hours.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Olive oil: The heart and soul of Mediterranean cooking. Look for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to maximize the authentic flavors.
- Garlic: Minced or grated, garlic is the flavor backbone of this dish. Don’t be shy with it!
- Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a juicy, saucy base. Opt for a high-quality brand for the best texture and flavor.
- Kalamata olives: Briny, tangy kalamata olives add a signature Mediterranean flair.
- Pasta: Choose a short, sturdy pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or orecchiette that can soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Herbs: A blend of fresh basil, oregano, and parsley elevates the overall Mediterranean vibe.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami note to balance the acidity.
Step-by-Step Mediterranean One Pot Pasta Instructions
Preparing Your Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
This Mediterranean one pot pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, start to finish. All you need is one large pot or Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, and a few simple ingredients. The key is to build layers of flavor by sautéing the aromatics first before adding the rest of the components. This ensures the pasta cooks directly in the flavorful sauce for maximum taste.
1- Begin by heating a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
2- Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices, then add the sliced kalamata olives. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3- Add the uncooked pasta, chicken or vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the pasta cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
4- Remove the lid and stir in the chopped fresh basil, oregano, and parsley. Let the pasta continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5- Finally, remove the pot from the heat and stir in a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust any seasoning as needed.
6- Serve your Mediterranean one pot pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Mediterranean one pot pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
– Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. This is the foundation of the dish.
– Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper. The pasta needs plenty of seasoning to really shine.
– Be mindful of your pasta cooking time – you want it to be al dente, not mushy. Start checking a minute or two before the package instructions.
– If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth or pasta cooking water to thin it out.
– For an extra boost of freshness, stir in the chopped herbs right at the end.
Serving and Storing Your Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
Perfect Pairings for Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
This Mediterranean one pot pasta is a true crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with all sorts of sides and accompaniments. For a light, fresh contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon. A hunk of crusty bread is always a welcome pairing, perfect for sopping up any extra sauce. And for a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
When it comes to beverages, a bright, acidic white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio complements the bold Mediterranean flavors wonderfully. Or for a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade makes a lovely companion.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Fortunately, this Mediterranean one pot pasta holds up incredibly well as leftovers. Simply store any extra portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can either gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, or pop it in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
For even easier meal prep, you can assemble all the ingredients ahead of time. Simply sauté the garlic and store it in the fridge, then combine the remaining ingredients when ready to cook. This way, you can have a homemade Mediterranean one pot pasta ready in under 20 minutes on those busy weeknights.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
Creative Mediterranean One Pot Pasta Variations
The beauty of this Mediterranean one pot pasta is its versatility. Try swapping in different vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for a seasonal twist. You can also experiment with various pasta shapes, from long strands like linguine to fun, bite-sized options like shells or orecchiette.
For a meaty version, brown some Italian sausage or ground beef before sautéing the garlic. Or for a seafood spin, stir in shrimp, scallops, or canned tuna towards the end of cooking. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this Mediterranean one pot pasta to your tastes.
Making Mediterranean One Pot Pasta Diet-Friendly
To make this Mediterranean one pot pasta gluten-free, simply substitute a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Lentil, chickpea, or brown rice pasta all work beautifully in this recipe.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. You can also reduce the amount of pasta and increase the vegetables to keep the carbs in check.
And for a vegan Mediterranean one pot pasta, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast instead. The other ingredients are naturally dairy-free, so it’s easy to make this dish suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta in this Mediterranean one pot recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible when it comes to the type of pasta you use. Short, sturdy shapes like penne, fusilli, or orecchiette work best, but you can also try long noodles like linguine or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I make this Mediterranean one pot pasta more saucy?
A: If you prefer a saucier consistency, simply add an extra 1/2 to 1 cup of broth when cooking the pasta. This will help the sauce thin out and coat the noodles more thoroughly. You can also stir in a splash of the pasta cooking water at the end to emulsify the sauce.
Q: Can I make this Mediterranean one pot pasta ahead of time?
A: Definitely! This dish reheats beautifully. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce.
Q: How can I scale this Mediterranean one pot pasta recipe?
A: This recipe is easily scalable to feed a crowd. Just multiply the ingredient amounts as needed. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if using a larger pot or dutch oven.
Q: What can I do if my Mediterranean one pot pasta turns out too dry?
A: If your pasta seems a little dry or clumped together, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of broth, pasta cooking water, or even a bit of olive oil and stir vigorously to loosen it up. The key is to add liquid gradually until you achieve the perfect saucy consistency.
Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Mediterranean One Pot Pasta features al dente penne noodles tossed in a vibrant tomato and herb sauce for a quick, flavor-packed weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. 3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
4. 4. Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup parmesan.
5. 5. Serve the Mediterranean One Pot Pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan.
Notes
For extra creaminess, you can stir in a couple tablespoons of cream or half-and-half at the end. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Conclusion
This Mediterranean one pot pasta is truly a game-changer when it comes to easy, flavor-packed weeknight meals. With its vibrant tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, it transports you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. And the best part? It all comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
I hope this recipe becomes a new staple in your household, just as it has been in mine. Give it a try and let me know what you think! I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations. Bon appétit!
