Martha Stewart’s One-Pot Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340g) linguine or spaghetti
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 sprigs fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 1/2 cups water
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients in Pot:

• In a large pot or deep skillet, combine linguine, sliced tomatoes, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, olive oil, and 4 1/2 cups of water.

2. Season and Bring to Boil:

• Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil over high heat.

3. Simmer and Toss:

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and simmer. Toss the pasta with tongs occasionally to ensure even cooking. Continue simmering until the pasta is al dente and most of the water has evaporated, which takes about 9-10 minutes.

4. Remove Basil Sprigs:

• Remove the pot from heat. Discard the basil sprigs, ensuring no leaves remain in the pasta.

5. Serve:

• Drizzle the pasta with a bit of extra-virgin olive oil for added flavor. Serve it hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

• Customize with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra freshness and nutrition.
• Protein Addition: Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it a heartier meal.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil, reserve some to chop and sprinkle on top just before serving.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Mozzarella for added richness.
• Watch Water Levels: Keep an eye on the water level towards the end of cooking. If the pasta is cooked but there’s excess water, you can drain some before serving.

This one-pot pasta is a quick, flavorful, and minimal-effort dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Enjoy your delicious meal!