Low Sodium Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce
Savor the vibrant flavors of wholesome Italian-inspired cuisine with this Low Sodium Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce recipe—a heart-healthy twist on a timeless classic. Featuring tender pasta shells tossed in a fragrant, garlicky tomato sauce made with juicy cherry tomatoes and no-salt-added tomato sauce, this dish is packed with flavor without relying on extra sodium. Highlighted by aromatic dried oregano and fresh basil chiffonade, the sauce achieves a perfect balance of freshness and depth. A hint of crushed red pepper flakes adds a gentle kick, while optional grated Parmesan offers a touch of indulgence. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners, this easy, low-sodium pasta recipe proves that you don’t need salt to create an irresistibly satisfying meal.
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup No-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions for al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3
Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4
Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to break down and release their juices.
Step 5
Stir in the no-salt-added tomato sauce and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 6
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing them to coat evenly in the tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 7
Stir in fresh basil and black pepper, cooking for 1 more minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 8
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (919.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1460.8 |
| Total Fat 49.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 15.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 47.4mg | 0% |
| Sodium 938.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 200.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 21.5g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 22.7g | |
| Protein 59.2g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 888.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 13.8mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1388.9mg | 0% |
Source of Calories