Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick vegetarian dinner? Look no further! This Instant Pot pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Forget about hours spent simmering sauces – this method delivers perfectly cooked pasta and a flavorful sauce in a fraction of the time. It's the ultimate example of easy recipes done right, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a simple, satisfying meal. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
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Add Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the Instant Pot. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
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Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
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Serve: Once the pressure is released, carefully open the lid. Stir gently and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Tips for the Best Instant Pot Pasta:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Make sure there's enough liquid to submerge the pasta. If using a different type of pasta, adjust the liquid accordingly.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your Instant Pot and the type of pasta used. Start with the recommended time and check for doneness. Slightly undercooked pasta will continue to cook in the residual heat.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing for a natural pressure release helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Cheesy Pasta: Add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Meatless Meatballs: Add store-bought or homemade vegetarian meatballs to the pot along with the pasta for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This Instant Pot pasta recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious vegetarian meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's a healthy, satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!