Irresistible Mediterranean One Pot Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Mediterranean One Pot Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

August 8, 2025

Updated:

August 8, 2025

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There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Mediterranean One Pot Pasta. Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious sauce bursting with the vibrant flavors of olives, tomatoes, and herbs, all while the comforting aroma wafts through your kitchen. It’s like a mini-vacation to the sunny Mediterranean coast without ever leaving your home.

This delightful dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. I vividly remember the first time I made this dish for friends; we devoured it in minutes, leaving only a few grains of pasta as evidence of our culinary conquest. The laughter and camaraderie shared over that meal made it unforgettable, and I promise you’ll experience the same joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean One Pot Pasta is a breeze to prepare, making dinner stress-free and enjoyable
The explosion of flavors will have your taste buds dancing with delight
Its stunning presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins

I once made this dish at a potluck dinner, and my friends practically tackled me for the recipe afterward.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I love using penne or fusilli for their sauce-hugging abilities.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for depth of flavor; it really enhances the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch; never underestimate the power of garlic!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes burst with flavor; they are perfect in this dish.
Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Kalamata Olives: These briny beauties add a delightful salty element; pitted olives save time.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the pasta, adding color and nutrients.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings creaminess; feel free to sprinkle extra on top before serving.
Fresh Basil: Gorgeous green basil adds freshness; use it liberally for an aromatic finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process. Chop garlic, halve cherry tomatoes, and wash spinach for easy access.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then toss in cherry tomatoes until they soften and burst with juices.

Add Pasta and Broth: Pour in your chosen short pasta along with vegetable broth. Stir everything together while bringing the mixture to a boil; let it simmer until the pasta absorbs that glorious liquid.

Toss in Olives and Spinach : Once your pasta has reached al dente perfection, fold in Kalamata olives and fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts away into that beautiful mix.

Finish with Parmesan and Basil : Remove from heat and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top. Add freshly chopped basil for an aromatic burst that will captivate everyone at the table.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean One Pot Pasta hot!

You Must Know

This Mediterranean One Pot Pasta not only simplifies your cooking but also bursts with vibrant flavors
It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights and family gatherings, making it a true crowd-pleaser
The aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and onions until fragrant, then add pasta, broth, and veggies together for seamless cooking. This method ensures everything absorbs those delicious flavors while saving you from washing multiple pots.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add a splash of white wine for an extra zing. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can elevate your dish to gourmet status without breaking a sweat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing your aromatics
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Use high-quality olive oil for richer flavor and depth in this dish

Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of neighborhood potlucks where everyone would rave about my one pot creation, making me feel like a culinary rockstar among friends.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta in Mediterranean One Pot Pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber to the dish.

How long does it take to cook Mediterranean One Pot Pasta?

It usually takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.

Can I make Mediterranean One Pot Pasta vegan?

Absolutely! Just skip cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan option.

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