Ingredients
– 250g pasta shells The base of the dish providing texture and substance
– 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté ingredients
– 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor and aroma
– 400g fresh tomatoes Provide natural sweetness and acidity
– a handful fresh basil Adds a fresh herbal note
– 50g Parmesan cheese, grated Offers a savory, umami finish
– 18-20 jumbo pasta shells
– 5 ounces fresh spinach
– 16 ounces or 2 cups ricotta cheese
– ¼ cup grated pecorino cheese + extra for sprinkling
– 2 cloves garlic, grated
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
– ¾ teaspoon salt + extra for pasta water
– freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce + extra for serving
– chopped fresh parsley for garnish
– olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
1-First Step: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
2-Second Step: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3-Third Step: Add chopped fresh tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften and release juice.
4-Fourth Step: Drain the pasta shells, reserving a small cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet and toss gently with the tomato sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency.
5-Fifth Step: Stir in fresh basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6-Final Step: Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and cheese if desired. For dietary adaptations, use gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese substitutes and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌿 Squeeze all excess moisture from the spinach after steaming to prevent watery filling.
🧄 Customize flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or extra garlic if desired.
🍅 Use your favorite marinara sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, for best taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg