Pasta Shells with Black-Eyed Peas and Artichokes

This may not be an Italian grandmother’s traditional recipe, but the combination of artichokes and black-eyed peas seasoned with caraway seeds and smoked tofu (or smoky cheese) is irresistible.

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This may not be an Italian grandmother’s traditional recipe, but the combination of artichokes and black-eyed peas seasoned with caraway seeds and smoked tofu (or smoky cheese) is irresistible.

Servings
4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup diced smoked tofu or grated smoked mozzarella cheese (4 oz.;optional)
  • 15 1/2-oz. can black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained, or 1 1/2 cups cooked black-eyed peas
  • 1 Tbs. olive oil
  • 1 medium red onion, chopped
  • 4 medium cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 tsp. caraway seeds, lightly crushed
  • 1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • 14-oz. can artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and coarsely chopped
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 to 2 tsp. cider vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
  • 12 oz. medium dried pasta shells

Preparation

Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

Meanwhile, measure out 1/4 cup black-eyed peas and mash with fork in small bowl; set mashed and whole black-eyed peas aside.

In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring often, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic, caraway seeds and pepper flakes and cook, stirring, 30 to 60 seconds.

Add artichoke hearts and reserved mashed and whole black-eyed peas; stir well. Add broth and salt and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors have blended, about 10 minutes. Stir in parsley, vinegar and pepper.

Shortly before sauce is ready, add pasta to boiling water; stir to prevent sticking. Cook, stirring often, until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and place in large warm serving bowl. Add artichoke mixture and tofu or cheese if desired and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories 313
  • Carbohydrate Content 51 g
  • Cholesterol Content 0 mg
  • Fat Content 5 g
  • Fiber Content 11 g
  • Protein Content 10 g
  • Saturated Fat Content 1 g
  • Sodium Content 299 mg
  • Sugar Content 0 g

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