Macaroni And Tomatoes
A hearty and comforting dish combining tender macaroni with flavorful stewed tomatoes and tomato juice, seasoned to taste. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering, it offers a savory blend of flavors that appeal to all ages and can be easily customized with your favorite spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- Add stewed tomatoes and tomato juice to the macaroni.
- Season with seasoned pepper, seasoned salt, and Accent to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the macaroni before mixing in the tomatoes. If you prefer a heartier dish, toss in some cooked ground beef or turkey. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a different texture and health benefit. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste, especially if you enjoy a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting dish alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with American recipes like Green Bean Supreme or a side of cornbread. For a fun twist, top it with shredded cheese or fresh herbs before serving to elevate the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra tomato juice to the mixture to prevent it from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Tomatoes contains roughly 38 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 530mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! For this recipe, about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, diced, will work well. Just be sure to cook them down to release their juices before mixing with the macaroni.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the tomato juice and any seasonings do not contain animal products. Seasoned pepper and salt are typically vegan-friendly, making this a great option for vegan recipes.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture. You can also use a spicier version of seasoned salt or add a dash of hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).