Introduction to Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Why Choose Unstuffed Dishes for Dinner?
Unstuffed dishes, like these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, are the ultimate solution for those hectic weeknights when you crave comfort food but don't have the time or energy for complicated recipes. They offer all the flavor of traditional stuffed pasta without the headache of laborious filling preparation.
Imagine a hearty meal that combines al dente jumbo shells with a zesty, spicy tomato sauce and a touch of creamy whipped ricotta. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also allows you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs like basil, which you can easily incorporate into your cooking from a local farmer’s market or your own herb garden.
Moreover, unstuffed dishes typically require fewer ingredients and less prep time, making them perfect for young professionals. With just one pot for the sauce and one for the pasta, you'll find clean-up a breeze. You can also customize your unstuffed creation to suit dietary preferences, like opting for vegetarian options or swapping proteins. Ultimately, the flexibility and ease of unstuffed meals mean you'll likely return to this recipe time and again!
Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner for yourself or entertaining friends, these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells will impress every time. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Main ingredients for flavor
In creating these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, the combination of ingredients plays a significant role in building flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to elevate your dish:
- Jumbo pasta shells: Serving as the comforting base.
- Extra virgin olive oil: For a rich, smooth texture.
- Ground spicy Italian chicken sausage: Adds savory heat.
- Shallots and garlic: Essential aromatics that flavor the dish beautifully.
- Dried oregano and thyme: These herbs bring an earthy twist.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Perfect for that extra kick.
- Tomato paste and crushed San Marzano tomatoes: They form the sauce’s backbone.
- Fresh basil and chopped greens: Bright, fresh additions to balance the dish.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy goodness that ties everything together.
Optional ingredients and substitutions
Feel free to customize based on your pantry! Consider these options:
- Swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- If you don’t have shallots, yellow onion works just fine.
- You can easily substitute crushed red pepper with jalapeños for a fresher taste.
- Experiment with spinach, kale, or arugula for the greens according to your preference.
These choices allow for flexibility while maintaining the delightful essence of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells. Enjoy creating your culinary masterpiece!
Preparing Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Cooking can sometimes feel like a complicated puzzle, especially when you crave something comforting yet exciting. These unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells are a wonderful solution to satisfy your cravings without the hassle of stuffing each shell. Let’s dive into the process of making this delightful dish!
Boil the Pasta Shells to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This step is crucial because the salt helps enhance the flavor of the pasta. Add a pound of jumbo shells to the boiling water and cook them according to the package directions until they reach al dente perfection. Just before draining, remember to scoop out about 1½ cups of that starchy pasta cooking water—this liquid is gold when it comes to making your sauce velvety. Once drained, set the shells aside.
Sauté the Spicy Chicken Sausage and Aromatics
Next up, it’s time to infuse your dish with flavor. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over high heat. Once it shimmers with heat, add in ½ pound of ground spicy Italian chicken sausage. Brown the sausage, which should take around 5 to 8 minutes. After it’s beautifully browned, reduce the heat to low and add your aromatics—3 thinly sliced shallots and 3 finely chopped garlic cloves. Add 2 teaspoons each of dried oregano and thyme, along with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for that extra kick! Cook everything until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Stir in a 6-ounce can of tomato paste and let it cook for another 2 minutes.
Build the Flavorful Sauce
Now for the moment when things get really saucy! Stir in a 14-ounce can of crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with the reserved 1 cup of pasta cooking water. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Let this simmer for around 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit—this is when the magic happens! Finally, add in 2 cups of your favorite chopped greens, like kale or spinach, and stir until they’re wilted. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings; every little tweak makes a difference!
Combine Everything Together
At this point, it’s time to unite all the components. Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the sauce along with every bit of flavor you've built. Toss in ½ cup of fresh basil, and if the sauce feels too thick, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This delicious harmony of ingredients is what makes the unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells a true delight.
Plate with Whipped Ricotta and Drizzle
As you near the finish line, it’s all about presentation and that luscious touch. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil with another ½ cup of fresh basil, the zest, and juice of one lemon, and a pinch of salt to create a refreshing drizzle.
To serve, spread a dollop of whipped ricotta cheese (you can whip it in a food processor for a fluffy texture) at the bottom of each bowl. Then, ladle those flavorful shells and sauce right over the ricotta. Drizzle your delightful basil lemon sauce on top, and voilà! Your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells are ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of this comforting yet vibrant dish.
For more deliciousness, check out my other recipes here.
Variations on Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Vegetarian Alternative
For those looking to enjoy these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells without meat, simply omit the spicy Italian chicken sausage. Instead, when you sauté the shallots, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with a delightful mix of seasonings, such as smoked paprika, fennel seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes. This will bring bold flavors to your dish without sacrificing the heartiness you crave.
Gluten-Free Suggestions
If gluten is a no-go for you, don’t worry! Substitute regular jumbo pasta shells with gluten-free varieties made from chickpeas or quinoa. Many brands offer gluten-free shells that hold up wonderfully in a sauce. Plus, the flavors of the unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells will still shine through, ensuring a satisfying meal for everyone at the table. Enjoy this adaptable dish without compromise!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Essential Cooking Techniques
When preparing your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, keep an eye on your pasta. Cooking it to al dente ensures it retains a bit of bite, perfect for melding with the rich tomato sauce. Don’t skip on saving some of that pasta water! It’s a secret weapon to adjusting the sauce consistency, adding flavor without compromising your dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to reinvigorate the sauce. For a creamy touch, consider mixing in a dollop of whipped ricotta before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Pairing Ideas
To elevate your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier side, crusty garlic bread complements the dish beautifully. Serving a light, sparkling water with lemon or a refreshing herbal tea can also refresh the palate between bites.
Presentation Tips
Presentation can make a world of difference! Start by spooning generous portions of the shells into shallow pasta bowls. Use a scoop of whipped ricotta as a creamy base and drizzle the basil lemon sauce on top for a vibrant touch. Finish with a sprinkle of extra basil for color, and maybe a hint of crushed red pepper for that extra kick.
With these simple tips, your meal will not only taste amazing but look stunning too!
Time Breakdown for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Preparation Time
Get ready to cook! The prep work for these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping shallots and garlic, as well as measuring out your spices and greens. Make sure you have everything ready to go!
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking process will take approximately 30 minutes. You’ll be boiling the pasta, browning the sausage, and creating a delicious sauce that combines all those vibrant flavors.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. In no time, you’ll be savoring a comforting bowl of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells!
If you're keen on getting started, don’t forget to check out your local grocery store for ingredients like jumbo pasta shells and fresh basil. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
When diving into a delicious plate of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, it’s good to know what’s inside. Here’s a quick overview of the key nutritional components:
Calories
A serving of these delightful shells contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner.
Protein
Each serving packs around 25 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken sausage and ricotta cheese, helping you stay energized throughout the day.
Sodium
With about 800 mg of sodium per serving, it’s best to be mindful of your salt intake, especially if you’re watching your health.
Enjoy your meal while balancing nutrition and flavor! For more insights on healthy eating, check out Healthline’s nutrition guide for tips and information.
FAQ about Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells in advance. Simply store the shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the dish gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
What sides go well with this dish?
To complement the richness of the unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, consider serving a light side salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs wonderfully for sopping up the delicious sauce. Lastly, some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers could round out the meal beautifully.
Is it possible to freeze unstuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells! Just ensure they are completely cooled, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little liquid if necessary.
Conclusion on Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
In summary, unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells offer an exciting twist to your typical pasta dish. With their rich flavors and creamy whipped ricotta, this recipe is not only satisfying but also a delight to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it's sure to be a hit!
For more delicious pasta ideas, check out this pasta recipe or learn about the benefits of cooking with fresh herbs in this article.
Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells with Whipped Ricotta
Equipment
- large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- food processor
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ pound ground spicy Italian chicken sausage
- 3 shallots, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tbs fresh oregano)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves (or 1 tbs fresh thyme)
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 can (6 ounce) tomato paste
- 1 can (14 ounce) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 2 cups chopped greens, such as kale, spinach, or chard
- 1 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1 zest and juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons juice)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese, whipped if desired
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, remove 1 ½ cups of the pasta cooking water. Drain.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken sausage and brown all over, about 5 to 8 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the shallots, garlic, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1 cup pasta cooking water, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the greens, stirring until wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add the pasta shells and ½ cup basil, tossing to combine. If needed, thin the sauce with additional pasta cooking water.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup olive oil with the remaining ½ cup basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the ricotta cheese into the bottom of each pasta bowl. Spoon the shells and sauce over the ricotta. Drizzle the basil lemon sauce over top. Serve and enjoy!
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