This Taste of Traditions recipe was submitted by our Publisher Karen Shayne who shares a treasured story of Dad. Enjoy. – Sandy

My dad once shared a story with me about a recipe that was a staple in his home during the leanest of times. As a child, it was one of the few meals that sustained his family, simple yet comforting. Later in life, as a firefighter, he would sometimes return to his old school to inspect the fire extinguishers and review evacuation plans. On one of those visits, a familiar aroma stopped him in his tracks. Curious, he wandered into the lunchroom a little early and there it was—his childhood dish on the menu that day, just as he remembered.

When he told me this story, I promised him that the next time I visited, we would make that dish together. True to my word, I carefully prepared the humble, three-ingredient (with a sprinkle of sugar) meal, and watching his face light up brought so much joy to my heart.

As it turns out, this macaroni and tomato recipe is more than just a family memory—it’s a staple at Southern cookouts and family gatherings. Often referred to as “Depression Food,” it was a cheap and filling meal that many families, like mine, relied on during the Great Depression. To this day, it remains a symbol of resilience and comfort, passed down through generations.

Macaroni and Tomatoes

Ingredients

Directions

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but stop short of al dente. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add the tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, and sugar to the drained macaroni, stirring it all together so the macaroni is well coated with sauce. Continue to cook the macaroni for about 10 more minutes for the flavors to combine. Serve immediately. \