Looking for a delicious and easy pasta dish that won't ruin your diet? Look no further than 1/2 cup of penne with mozzarella and tomato! With only 190 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free way to satisfy your pasta cravings.

In addition to being low in calories, penne with mozzarella and tomato is also a good source of macronutrients. One serving contains approximately 9 grams of protein, 31 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of fat. It's also a good source of vitamin C.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of penne with mozzarella and tomato, as well as tips for cooking and serving this delicious dish. Whether you're a busy mom looking for a quick weeknight meal or a health-conscious foodie looking for a tasty new recipe to try, we've got you covered!

Calories in 1/2 Cup Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

As mentioned earlier, one serving of penne with mozzarella and tomato contains 190 calories. This makes it a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake. It's also a filling and satisfying dish, so you won't feel deprived.

Macronutrients in 1/2 Cup Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

In addition to being low in calories, penne with mozzarella and tomato is also a good source of macronutrients. One serving contains approximately 9 grams of protein, 31 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of fat. It's also a good source of vitamin C.

Micronutrients in 1/2 Cup Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

Penne with mozzarella and tomato is also a good source of micronutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.

Health Benefits of Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

The health benefits of penne with mozzarella and tomato are numerous. For one, it's a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that can help you maintain a healthy weight. It's also a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health. And the vitamins and minerals in the dish can help boost your immune system and protect against disease.

Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato Recipe

To make penne with mozzarella and tomato, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1/2 cup penne pasta - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes - 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste To prepare the dish, cook the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a pan and add the minced garlic. Cook for a minute or two until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the tomatoes. Toss everything together and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!

Possible Variations of Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

There are many ways to customize penne with mozzarella and tomato to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, you could add some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Or you could add some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients. If you're vegan or lactose intolerant, you could use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese altogether.

The Best Way to Cook Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

The best way to cook penne with mozzarella and tomato is to cook the pasta until it's al dente, or slightly firm. This will help ensure that the pasta doesn't become mushy or overcooked when you add it to the pan with the tomatoes. And be sure to use fresh ingredients, like ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella cheese, for the best flavor.

Tips for Serving Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato

To make penne with mozzarella and tomato look as good as it tastes, try garnishing it with some fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. You could also serve it with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread to round out the meal.

Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato vs. Other Pasta Dishes

Compared to other pasta dishes like spaghetti with meat sauce or fettuccine alfredo, penne with mozzarella and tomato is a healthier and lighter option. It's lower in calories, fat, and sodium, and higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

How to Incorporate Penne With Mozzarella & Tomato into a Balanced Diet

Penne with mozzarella and tomato can be a great addition to a balanced diet, especially if you pair it with a side of vegetables and a lean protein source like grilled chicken or tofu. You could also try making a larger batch and portioning it out for meals throughout the week. And if you're trying to watch your carb intake, consider using a whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional penne.