This vibrant and easy One Pot Pasta recipe combines gemelli pasta, fresh cherry tomatoes, spinach, and olives in a savory vegetable broth, all cooked together for a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Author:Lilya
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
1 Pound gemelli pasta
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes
3 cups baby spinach
½ cup black olives, pitted
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 ½ cups vegetable broth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Sauté: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Season and combine: Add the gemelli pasta, cherry tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring often to prevent the pasta from sticking and adding more water if needed, until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has reduced.
Add greens and olives: Stir in the baby spinach and black olives, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Drain any excess cooking liquid if necessary.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped basil, and serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal.
Notes
Use gemelli or any pasta of your choice, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Keep stirring during simmering to avoid pasta sticking or burning on the bottom.
Add extra broth or water if the pasta absorbs too much liquid before cooking through.
This dish is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein additions.
Serve with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if desired, though not included in original ingredients.