Shells And Stuffing With Light Tomato Sauce
Shells filled with a savory tomato sauce, featuring bold garlic and red pepper flavors, perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired meal suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large, deep skillet and cook the onion over low heat for 8 minutes until very soft, but not browned.
- Pour the tomatoes into a large bowl and crush them with your hands.
- Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer gently for 30 minutes until the sauce is thickened, but not too reduced.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you prefer a thicker consistency, allow the sauce to simmer longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. Fresh basil or oregano can enhance flavor; swap dried herbs in equal measure if fresh isn't available. This sauce works wonderfully as a base for Italian recipes or as a topping for Garlic Breadsticks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato sauce over stuffed pasta shells or mix it with cooked spaghetti for a comforting meal. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. For a twist, consider using it as a base for 'Clergy In A Hurry' Spaghetti, which is quick and satisfying.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shells And Stuffing With Light Tomato Sauce contains roughly 1114 calories, with 17g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1967mg per serving (86% 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! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes should suffice. Blanch them first to remove the skins, then chop and crush them as you would with canned tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes will give a vibrant flavor to the sauce.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add more crushed red pepper or include chopped fresh chili peppers. If you like it very spicy, consider a pinch of cayenne pepper too. Just start with small amounts and adjust to your taste as the sauce simmers.
Can this sauce be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even tastier. Just reheat gently before serving, and it will be ready to complement your favorite pasta.
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).