One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick and easy way to enjoy a hearty pasta dish with minimal cleanup. The sauce is made from simple ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and basil, which create a rich and fragrant base. The best part is that the pasta is cooked right in the sauce, so it absorbs all the flavors while it cooks, making each bite deliciously satisfying. It’s the perfect dish for busy nights or when you’re craving a comforting meal that’s also healthy and light.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes if preferred)

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1/2 cup coconut milk or non-dairy milk (for creaminess, optional)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added depth)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the garlic: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

2. Add the tomatoes and broth: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, and tomato paste (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Add the pasta and seasonings: Add the pasta to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Cook the pasta: Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is done, add a little more vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.

5. Add creaminess: Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the coconut milk or non-dairy milk to make the sauce creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil if desired.

6. Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil and red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Optional: add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

7. Enjoy: Serve immediately, and enjoy your flavorful One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, or a vegan sausage to the dish.

• More Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can stir them in when you add the pasta.

• Spicy Version: Add fresh chili peppers or more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

• Cheesy Version: Stir in vegan cheese or sprinkle with vegan parmesan for added flavor.

• Non-Vegan: If you’re not vegan, you can use regular dairy milk and add grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra rich flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: While pasta dishes can freeze well, the texture of pasta may change slightly upon thawing. Store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a pot on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. About 3-4 medium tomatoes, diced, would work well. If using fresh tomatoes, you may need to cook them down for a few more minutes to break them down into a sauce.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that your vegetable broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the dish even more nutritious. Add them in when you add the pasta for the best results.

5. Can I use regular dairy milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can use any kind of dairy milk or plant-based milk in place of coconut milk. Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk would work well.

6. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. Also, make sure the pasta is well-submerged in the liquid while it cooks.

7. Can I use a different herb instead of basil?

Yes, you can substitute basil with oregano, thyme, or parsley, depending on your preference. However, basil adds a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the tomato base.

8. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

9. Can I make this spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the dish to make it spicier. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more tomato paste or reduce the sauce further by simmering it for a few extra minutes. Adding a bit of nutritional yeast will also help thicken and add a cheesy flavor.

Conclusion

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that brings together the best of Italian-inspired ingredients in one simple dish. The pasta absorbs all the savory flavors of the tomato-based broth, creating a satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. With the option to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or protein, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes. Enjoy this comforting and nourishing dish with minimal cleanup!