Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious? Introducing the One Pot Pasta Leek – a delightful Italian recipe that brings together the comforting flavors of sautéed leeks, garlic, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes! This one-pot wonder not only saves you time on cleanup but also delivers a hearty meal that will impress your family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a culinary masterpiece that’s bursting with flavor. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create a comforting bowl of pasta that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 300g pasta of choice
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Clean and prepare all ingredients: slice leeks into thin rings, halve cherry tomatoes, mince garlic, and have vegetable broth ready.
- Select a large, wide cooking pot or deep skillet that can accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
- Heat olive oil in the pot over medium heat, then add sliced leeks and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until leeks become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add uncooked pasta to the pot, then pour in vegetable broth. Ensure pasta is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Cook for approximately 15-18 minutes, stirring periodically, until pasta is al dente and most liquid has been absorbed.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To streamline your cooking process, take a few minutes to slice the leeks, halve the cherry tomatoes, and mince the garlic before you start cooking. This way, everything is ready to go when you need it!
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta can work, consider using a shape that holds sauce well, like fusilli or penne. This will enhance the dish's flavor and texture.
- Monitor the Liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid level while cooking. If it looks like the pasta is drying out before it's fully cooked, add a splash more vegetable broth to keep it saucy.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the veggies you choose.
- Finish with Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the pot, so serve it hot for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
