Peas And Macaroni Shells
Creamy peas and macaroni shells combined with aromatic herbs and garlic, perfect for a comforting, family-friendly meal that balances simplicity with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic in oil and margarine until translucent.
- Add boiled and drained macaroni shells, cooked peas, finely chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the skillet and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, cover, and bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese or nutritional yeast to the mixture before baking. You can substitute frozen peas for fresh if needed, and any type of pasta shell will work in a pinch. If you're looking for a vegan version, replace the margarine with a plant-based alternative and omit any cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peas and macaroni shells as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs beautifully with Mary Schott's Bean Salad for a well-rounded meal. For a more filling option, consider adding a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the peas and macaroni mixture in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peas And Macaroni Shells contains roughly 839 calories, with 11g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (92% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni shells are traditional, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting margarine with a plant-based alternative and omitting any cheese. The dish is still flavorful with the sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh parsley.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes. A splash of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the dish. For added depth, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
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).