Are you looking for a delicious and filling meal that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than 1 cup (230 g) of Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese, which contains just 250 calories. This classic Italian dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

Made with ground beef or pork, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, Bolognese sauce is a flavorful and hearty topping for pasta. Rigatoni, in particular, is an excellent choice for this dish, thanks to its tubular shape that captures the sauce inside.

In this article, we'll provide you with all the information you need to prepare and enjoy this dish, including calorie count, nutritional benefits, serving suggestions, storage instructions, and more.

Calorie Count

As mentioned earlier, 1 cup (230 g) of Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese contains 250 calories. The calorie count may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and portion size used.

Ingredients

To make a delicious and authentic Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef or pork
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb. Rigatoni pasta

Preparation Method

Here are the steps to make Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese:

1. Cook the Rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or pork over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked Rigatoni.

Portion Size

1 cup (230 g) of cooked Rigatoni and a generous serving of Bolognese sauce is typically enough for one person. However, the portion size may vary depending on your appetite and dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits

Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese packs a number of nutritional benefits. For instance:

• Protein from the ground beef or pork
• Fiber from the pasta and tomatoes
• Vitamins and minerals from the herbs and other ingredients
• Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, which has been linked to lower cancer risk and better heart health

Serving Suggestions

Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese is a versatile dish that you can serve in many ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Garnish with Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley
• Serve with garlic bread or salad on the side
• Make a double batch and freeze in portioned containers for easy meal prep

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers or want to store Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese for later, here's how you can do it:

1. Let the dish cool to room temperature.
2. Transfer the pasta and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
3. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Variations

You can modify the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas:

• Use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef or pork for a lower calorie and fat version.
• Add more veggies like bell peppers, carrots or mushrooms to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit specific dietary needs

Allergen Information

Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese contains wheat and may contain milk if you choose to use Parmesan cheese as a garnish. If you have gluten or dairy allergies or intolerances, be sure to choose appropriate substitutes.

Food Pairings

Pasta Rigatoni Ala Bolognese pairs well with a variety of foods and drinks. Here are some suggestions:

• Red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Fruit salad for dessert