Tomatoes And Macaroni
A flavorful tomato and macaroni dish with tender vegetables and a savory sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and pepper in margarine until tender.
- Stir in sugar, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add peeled and chopped tomatoes; cook until slightly thickened and bubbly.
- Pour the sauce over cooked macaroni or shells and stir to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider sautéing garlic with the onion and pepper. If you're out of margarine, olive oil or butter will work well. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch. You can also toss in some cooked protein, like chicken or tofu, to make it heartier. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Skillet Macaroni And Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color. It makes a delightful main course or a side dish alongside grilled vegetables or Barbecued Spareribs And Sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a light salad, like Red And Green Cabbage Salad, to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes And Macaroni contains roughly 589 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg per serving (33% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially when fresh ones are out of season. Use about one can of diced tomatoes, drained, and adjust the cooking time as needed since they are already soft.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter or oil, and ensure the pasta you use is egg-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this comforting dish.
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).