Introduction to Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
The Need for Quick, Homemade Meals in a Busy Lifestyle
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare delicious, homemade meals can feel like a daunting task. Many of us juggle demanding jobs, social lives, and personal commitments that leave little room for lengthy cooking sessions. Enter unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells—the ultimate solution for anyone in search of a heartwarming, satisfying dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes!
This easy recipe combines jumbo pasta shells, zesty Italian chicken sausage, and a medley of fresh herbs and greens, creating a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet remains simple to execute. Even better, you can customize it to fit your dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Imagine serving up a vibrant bowl of cheesy goodness topped with velvety whipped ricotta and a drizzle of zesty basil-lemon oil. It’s the kind of dinner that’s sure to impress friends or family without requiring hours in the kitchen. For tips on how to make this recipe sing, check out The Kitchn’s helpful guide on meal prepping, ensuring you never have to sacrifice taste for time again! So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells!
Ingredients for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Essential ingredients for a mouth-watering dish
Creating unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells is a delightful journey into flavors and textures. Here, we highlight the essential ingredients that bring this recipe to life:
- Jumbo pasta shells: They provide the perfect vessel for all the deliciousness.
- Spicy Italian chicken sausage: This adds a robust flavor and a hint of spice.
- Shallots and garlic: Their aromatic qualities form the base for your sauce.
- Canned San Marzano tomatoes: For that rich, authentic tomato flavor, don't settle for less!
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding depth to the dish.
- Fresh basil: A must-have for that garden-fresh taste.
- Whipped ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy texture that perfectly balances the dish.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to tailor the dish to your taste! Consider adding:
- Greens: Incorporate chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- Fresh herbs: Experiment with additional basil or other herbs for a unique twist.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Seasonal vegetables: Toss in some roasted zucchini or bell peppers for color and crunch.
With these ingredients, you’re set to whip up a mouth-watering unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells dish that will impress family and friends alike!
Preparing Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Creating a delicious dish of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells is not only rewarding but also a fun way to impress your friends and family. With vibrant flavors and a creamy ricotta touch, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the steps that will transform simple ingredients into a delightful meal!
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start cooking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients and the necessary equipment. This can make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you'll need:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Spicy Italian chicken sausage
- Shallots, garlic, and greens (like kale or spinach)
- Canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste
- Herbs: oregano and thyme
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil, lemon, and ricotta cheese
You’ll also need a large pot for boiling pasta and a skillet for making the sauce. A food processor will come in handy for whipping the ricotta!
Cook the Pasta to Al Dente
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until they reach al dente perfection. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Just before draining, make sure to reserve about 1.5 cups of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help you achieve the desired sauce consistency later!
Brown the Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage
In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over high heat. Add the ground spicy Italian chicken sausage, cooking until browned, which usually takes about 5 to 8 minutes. This step is crucial as it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells.
Sauté Shallots and Garlic for Aroma
Next, reduce the heat to low and throw in the shallots, followed by the garlic. Add in dried oregano, thyme, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté these fragrant ingredients until the shallots begin to caramelize, approximately 5 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
Create the Sauce with Crushed Tomatoes
Now it’s time to build your sauce! Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 2 minutes. Next, add the canned crushed tomatoes and around 1 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Toss in the greens and stir until wilted.
Incorporate Greens and Pasta
Once your sauce is thickened to perfection, add the cooked pasta shells and half of the fresh basil. Gently toss to combine everything, and if it looks a bit thick, feel free to add a splash more of that reserved pasta cooking water.
Prepare the Whipped Ricotta
In the meantime, in a small bowl, mix the remaining olive oil, the rest of the basil, lemon zest, and juice. Set this aside as it will complement your dish beautifully. For a delicious creaminess, whip your ricotta cheese in a food processor until smooth and airy.
Plate the Dish Beautifully
To serve, spread a generous scoop of the whipped ricotta in the bottom of each bowl. Spoon the saucy shells over the top and finish with a drizzle of your vibrant basil lemon sauce. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also presents beautifully!
Enjoy your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Happy cooking!
Variations on Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Meat-free version for vegetarian enthusiasts
For those looking to savor these unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells without meat, simply omit the sausage! Instead, enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms or add a hearty mix of lentils and vegetables. This not only boosts the flavor but also serves up protein, making for a delicious vegetarian option.
Alternative ingredients for a creamy spin
If you're after that creamy texture without the ricotta, try substituting with cottage cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative. You can also blend in some heavy cream or coconut milk for an extra indulgent version. This adds a velvety richness that pairs exquisitely with the spicy tomato sauce—perfect for creamy pasta lovers!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Tips to Enhance Flavor and Texture
- Layered Seasoning: Enhance your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells by adding seasoning at multiple stages. Season the pasta, sauce, and ricotta separately for depth.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs, like basil and oregano, just before serving. Their bright flavors can elevate the dish immensely.
- Texture Play: For an exciting texture, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs on top.
Notes on Make-Ahead Options
- Prep in Advance: Feel free to prep your sauce and pasta shells a day ahead. Just combine them right before serving for optimal freshness.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.
With these tips, your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells will impress every time!
Serving Suggestions for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Perfect Pairings with Salads or Bread
When serving unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, think about complementing them with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. A simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully, as the peppery arugula balances the sauce’s richness. Alternatively, serve with garlic bread for a comforting twist that’s sure to please. Don't forget to include some grated Parmesan for extra flavor!
Creative Garnishing Ideas
Elevate your dish by adding a touch of creativity with garnishes. Fresh basil leaves can brighten the presentation and enhance the aroma. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will not only add visual appeal but also a spicy kick. For a creamy finish, drizzle some extra whipped ricotta on top; it's like a warm hug on your taste buds. You might also consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture that brings everything together.
Feel free to explore these serving suggestions to make your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells an unforgettable experience!
Time Breakdown for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Preparation Time
Get ready to whip up a delicious meal! You'll need just 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prepare.
Cooking Time
Once you're all set, the actual cooking will take about 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Total Time
In only 30 minutes, you'll have a hearty dish of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells ready to enjoy with family and friends.
This quick turnaround makes it ideal for those evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. You can sneak a peek at more delicious recipes at sites like Bon Appétit and Food Network for more inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Calories per serving
Each serving of these delicious unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells contains approximately 692 calories. This hearty meal offers a satisfying experience without overwhelming your calorie count for the day.
Key nutrients and values
These shells are not just tasty; they're packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Protein: About 25g, thanks to the ground spicy Italian chicken sausage and ricotta cheese.
- Healthy Fats: Relying on approximately 30g from the extra virgin olive oil and cheese, which support heart health.
- Carbohydrates: At around 85g, these give you the energy boost needed for your busy day.
- Fiber: Expect around 7g, primarily from the pasta and greens, aiding digestion.
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamins A and C from the spinach and tomatoes, along with calcium and iron provided by the ricotta and greens.
Nutritional information may vary slightly based on personal ingredient choices. For a deeper look into the nutrients in tomatoes, check out WebMD.
Diving into a bowl of unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells not only delights your taste buds, but nourishes your body as well!
FAQs about Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
Can I substitute the sausage for another protein?
Absolutely! If you're looking to personalize your unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells, turkey bacon, chicken ham, or even a plant-based sausage will work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or lentils for added protein and a satisfying texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to soften the dish. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months!
What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients?
Don’t fret! Replace fresh basil with dried herbs, and if you lack ground sausage, kind of ground meat or vegetarian crumbles can be swapped in. Cooking is all about creativity! Check out some pantry staples for replacements — it can lead to a deliciously unique version of these flavorful unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells.
Conclusion on Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells
If you're searching for a cozy weeknight meal that’s indulgent yet simple, unstuffed spicy tomato basil shells will not disappoint. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up creamy, hearty comfort that showcases bold flavors. Make it for family or friends, and watch them love every bite!
Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells with Whipped Ricotta
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- Small bowl
- Food Processor
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 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 6 ounce can tomato paste
- 1 14 ounce can 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 lemon about 3 tablespoons juice
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese whipped in the food processor, if desired
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- 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. When the oil shimmers, 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, cook 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 overtop. Serve and enjoy!
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