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Easy Healthy One Pot Pasta Recipe photo

Healthy One Pot Pasta Recipe

This Healthy One Pot Pasta is a creamy delight! Packed with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 pound penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
  • 8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes Packed in water, drained and chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 pound chicken breast Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese Divided.
  • 1 cup light cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups baby spinach Fresh.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
  2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics - In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Cook the Chicken - Add the chopped chicken breast, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes - Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Create the Sauce - Pour in the light cream and Dijon mustard, mixing well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Step 6: Incorporate the Spinach - Add the baby spinach, stirring until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Combine with Pasta - Gently fold the cooked penne into the sauce, stirring in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
  8. Step 8: Final Touches - Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy! - Serve hot, garnished with remaining Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables.
  • Make it spicier by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
  • This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.