Small Pasta Shells Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Meal

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and versatile pasta recipe, look no further than small pasta shells. These tiny pasta shapes are perfect for holding onto sauces, making them a popular choice for a variety of dishes. In this recipe, we will show you how to make small pasta shells that are tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

To make small pasta shells, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

Directions

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water.

2. Add the small pasta shells to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.

3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are fragrant and translucent.

4. Add the can of diced tomatoes to the pan, along with the dried basil and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the tomato sauce. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.

6. Serve the small pasta shells hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! While small pasta shells work best for this recipe, you can certainly substitute them with another type of pasta. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the instructions on the package.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta shells with the sauce for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in a pan or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I add meat or seafood to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! If you prefer a heartier dish, you can add cooked ground meat like beef, turkey, or sausage to the tomato sauce. Additionally, you can also incorporate seafood like shrimp or cooked chicken for added protein.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and ensuring that all the ingredients used are vegan-friendly. You can also use plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh as a substitute for meat.

Now that you have a delicious small pasta shells recipe in your repertoire, you can enjoy this versatile dish anytime you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and indulge in a plateful of small pasta shells perfection!