Looking for an easy yet delicious meal to prepare during a busy weeknight? Look no further than this one-pot tomato conchiglie pasta shell recipe! Not only is it incredibly flavorful, full of fresh ingredients, and healthy, but also is much quicker and simpler to make than you may think. No more spending hours in the kitchen prepping a dish – this savoury Italian classic can be made with just one pot, making cleanup easy too! Get ready to experience restaurant-level flavour right in your own home.

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Conchiglie pasta shells recipe

Conchiglie, more commonly known as pasta shells, make a fantastic base for comforting and delicious one-pot meals. This easy one-pot tomato conchiglie recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavours of tomato, garlic, and onion to create a satisfying and flavourful dish.

With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and for those seeking a quick and delicious meal. Not only does it save time by cooking everything in one pot, but the delightful combination of tomato sauce and pasta shells ensures every bite is full of flavour. If you don’t fancy the shells substitute them for orzo the mini pasta.

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Ingredients for tomato conchiglie

For about 6-7 servings, you will need the following ingredients:

500 g Conchiglie
2 x 400g Tinned Tomatoes (Chopped)
2 Cloves of garlic (chopped)
1 Red Onion (Chopped)
900 ml Vegetable Stock
Salt and Pepper (to season)
1 tsp Parsley (Fresh or dried)
1 tsp Basil (Fresh or dried)
100 g Cheese (To sprinkle on top)
½ tsp Cayenne Pepper
2 tbsp Olive Oil

In this recipe, we’re using shell pasta, otherwise known as Conchiglie, which is perfect for holding the rich tomato sauce. You have the option to add red wine and beef bouillon for enhanced flavour, but these can be omitted for a vegetarian version or according to personal preferences.

Fresh basil will add an aromatic touch to the dish, and the combination of mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano will provide a delicious, cheesy finish. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, and you’re ready to start creating your one-pot wonder.

How to make one pan tomato conchiglie

Add the olive oil to the pan and fry the red onion on medium heat for about 6 minutes until soft. Add the garlic, black pepper and cayenne pepper and stir for one minute.
Add the tinned tomatoes and stir through, then add the conchiglie, vegetable stock and basil. Bring to the boil, then simmer with the lid on for 30 minutes. Add more water if needed halfway through.
Top with parsley and cheese, and serve.

conchiglie pasta shells recipe in one pot

Serving suggestions

Easy One Pot Tomato Conchiglie is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your preferences. Here are a few serving suggestions to complement your pasta:

Sweet Corn and Cherry Tomatoes: Mix together cooked sweet corn kernels and halved cherry tomatoes for a fresh, summery twist on your pasta dish.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve your pasta alongside a selection of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans for a balanced, nutritious meal.
Salad: Pair your one-pot pasta with a light and zesty salad, such as a classic Greek salad or a cucumber and tomato salad, to add an element of freshness to your meal. Great for lunch boxes!

If you’re looking to add some protein, consider the following options:

Grilled Chicken: Slices of tender, grilled chicken can be mixed into the pasta or served on the side to provide a delicious, lean protein source.
Prosciutto or Pancetta: Add some savoury Italian cured meat like prosciutto or pancetta to your dish for a salty, flavourful addition.
Plant-Based Proteins: For a vegetarian or vegan alternative, include protein-rich ingredients such as chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for added nutrition and substance.

Lastly, don’t forget to finish off your pasta dish with some extra toppings:

Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to the pasta.
Chopped Fresh Basil: Scatter some freshly chopped basil over the top of your pasta just before serving for a fragrant, herby finish.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your dish for a hint of spice that will awaken your taste buds.

Storage Tips

Proper storage of your Easy One Pot Tomato Conchiglie-Pasta Shell dish can help preserve its taste and freshness for later consumption. Follow these simple storage tips to make the most of your leftovers:

1. Cooling before storing
Allow the cooked pasta dish to cool down to room temperature before attempting to store it. Storing the dish while it is still hot may cause condensation and promote bacterial growth.

2. Using airtight containers
Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. This will help prevent the pasta from absorbing other odours in the fridge and keep it fresh for a longer period.

3. Refrigeration
Store the sealed container in the fridge at or below 5°C. Properly refrigerated pasta can last for 3 to 5 days. Be sure to consume it within that time frame for optimal taste and food safety.

4. Freezing for longer storage
If you wish to store the pasta for a longer period, consider freezing it. Transfer the pasta into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, leaving some room at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and store in the freezer. Frozen pasta can last for up to 1-2 months.

5. Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat your stored tomato Conchiglie dish, start by thawing it in the refrigerator if it has been frozen. Reheat in the microwave or on a stovetop, ensuring that the dish is heated thoroughly before eating.