Indulge in the comforting simplicity of our Low Fat Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce—an easy-to-make, healthy pasta dish bursting with vibrant flavors and minimal effort. Perfectly al dente pasta shells are coated in a rich, homemade tomato sauce crafted from canned crushed tomatoes, sautéed garlic, and onion, with a fragrant medley of dried oregano and fresh basil. This guilt-free recipe uses just a tablespoon of olive oil, keeping the fat content low while maintaining depth and richness. Customize the dish with a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added indulgence. Ready in just 30 minutes and ideal for a weeknight dinner, this wholesome and crowd-pleasing pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables. Keywords: low-fat pasta recipe, tomato sauce recipe, healthy pasta dinner, quick and easy pasta recipe, Italian-inspired meals.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the garlic and onion. Add dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
Allow the tomato sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the sauce and enhance the flavors.
Stir in the chopped basil and red pepper flakes, if using, letting it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the shells thoroughly with the tomato sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Calories |
1308 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 27.9 g | 36% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.6 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 24 mg | 8% | |
| Sodium | 2143 mg | 93% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.4 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.8 g | 81% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.3 g | ||
| Protein | 49.7 g | 99% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 534 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 13.4 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 1587 mg | 34% | |
*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.