Heart-Healthy Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist in this recipe for Heart-Healthy Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce. Featuring tender whole-grain pasta shells smothered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, this dish is loaded with wholesome ingredients like baby spinach, garlic, and no-salt-added crushed tomatoes for a guilt-free indulgence. Seasoned with aromatic dried basil, oregano, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, this low-sodium recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful yet heart-friendly meal. Quick and simple to prepare in just 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Serve it with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of optional grated Parmesan for a nutritious, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 83/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces whole-grain pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, no salt added
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt to it. Cook the whole-grain pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat the extra-virgin olive oil.

Step 3

Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5

Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.

Step 6

Season the sauce with dried basil, dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 7

Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.

Step 8

Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and baby spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly into the sauce.

Step 9

Combine the cooked pasta shells with the tomato sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with optional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1410.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1983.2

Total Fat 54.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 16.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 11.9mg	0%
Sodium 1027.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 315.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 54.4g	0%
Total Sugars 40.4g
Protein 78.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1047.6mg	0%
Iron 19.3mg	0%
Potassium 3220.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 23.7%

Protein: 15.3%

Carbs: 61.0%