One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish where spaghetti and fresh vegetables cook together in one pot. This low-sodium version is perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Combine ingredients in the pot
- b.Place the spaghetti, olive oil, sliced garlic, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large skillet or pot.
- c.Pour in the water.
- d.Season with the salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the pasta and vegetables
- b.Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- c.Reduce the heat to a steady simmer and start your timer for about 9-10 minutes.
- d.Stir the pasta frequently with tongs to prevent it from sticking together.
- e.Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and most of the water has evaporated, leaving behind a light sauce.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Wilt the spinach and finish
- b.Add the fresh spinach to the pot during the last minute of cooking.
- c.Stir continuously until the spinach has just wilted.
- d.Remove the pot from the heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and serve
- b.Stir in the fresh basil and lemon juice.
- c.Give everything one final toss to combine.
- d.Divide the pasta among four bowls and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Stir the pasta every 2-3 minutes to keep the strands from clumping together as they cook.
- 2If the water evaporates before the pasta is cooked, add another 1/4 cup of hot water as needed.
- 3For extra flavor without salt, add a bay leaf to the pot while cooking and remove it before serving.
- 4Use other low-potassium vegetables like sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for variety.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Sodium
With only 1/4 tsp of salt for the entire dish, this recipe helps manage blood pressure and is suitable for kidney-friendly diets.
Quick and Convenient
As a one-pot meal ready in 25 minutes, it's an easy way to enjoy a home-cooked, nutritious dinner on busy weeknights.
Rich in Vitamins
Tomatoes provide lycopene and Vitamin C, while spinach offers Vitamin K and iron, contributing to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version is very healthy. It's packed with vegetables, uses a minimal amount of heart-healthy olive oil, and is specifically designed to be low in sodium, which is beneficial for blood pressure and kidney health.