Manicotti is a traditional Italian dish that is loved by many. It is a tube-shaped pasta that is typically stuffed with cheese and other savory ingredients. Our light version of the classic dish is a healthier alternative to the regular version, containing only 340 calories per serving.

Not only is manicotti delicious, but it can also be a great source of nutrition. Each serving of our light manicotti contains 19 grams of protein, 9 grams of fat, and 38 grams of carbohydrates.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of this tasty dish, including its ingredients, preparation, and nutritional benefits.

What is Manicotti?

Manicotti is an Italian dish that consists of large tubes of pasta that are stuffed with filling and baked in sauce. The tubes, which resemble oversize rigatoni, are typically made from wheat flour and eggs. The filling can vary but usually consists of some combination of cheese, meat or vegetables. Manicotti is often served as an entrée and is a popular dish for special occasions.

How is Manicotti Made?

To make manicotti, the pasta is first cooked until it is al dente. Then, the tubes are filled with the desired filling, such as ricotta cheese or a mixture of ricotta and spinach, and placed in a baking dish. The dish is then covered with sauce and baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and the pasta is cooked through. Sometimes breadcrumbs are added to the top of the dish for added texture.

What are the Ingredients of this Light Entree?

Our light manicotti entrée is made with the same ingredients as traditional manicotti, but with a few substitutions. We use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to add fiber and nutrients, and we use part-skim ricotta cheese instead of full-fat ricotta to decrease the fat and calorie content. We also use low-fat mozzarella cheese and a tomato-based sauce to further reduce the calorie count. The result is a lighter version of the classic dish that is still just as flavorful.

What Makes this Entree Light?

Our light manicotti entrée is made with healthier ingredients and contains fewer calories and less fat than traditional manicotti. By using lower-fat cheeses and whole wheat pasta, we are able to create a dish that is just as delicious but also more nutritious.

How Does this Entree Taste?

Many people who try our light manicotti entrée are surprised at how delicious it tastes. The whole wheat pasta adds a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the creamy filling and tangy sauce. The low-fat cheeses give the dish a rich, cheesy flavor without weighing it down, and the tomato-based sauce adds just the right amount of acidity and sweetness.

What are the Benefits of Choosing a Light Entree?

There are many benefits to choosing a light entrée like our manicotti. First and foremost, it can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Light entrées are also often higher in nutrient content, providing you with the vitamins, minerals, and fiber your body needs to function properly. Plus, they can be just as tasty as their higher-calorie counterparts.

How Can You Serve this Entree?

Our light manicotti entrée is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It can be the star of a dinner party or the perfect meal for a weeknight dinner. Whatever the occasion, it pairs well with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. Leftovers make a great lunch the next day, or you can freeze them for later. Simply wrap the leftover manicotti in aluminum foil and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Make this Entree at Home?

Making our light manicotti entrée at home is easy and only requires a few ingredients. Simply cook the pasta, mix the filling, and bake in the oven with the sauce. Here's a recipe to get you started:

What are the Variations of Manicotti?

Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. Some popular variations include spinach and cheese, mushroom and sausage, and beef and ricotta. In addition to the filling, you can also experiment with different types of pasta, sauces, and toppings to create your own unique version of the dish.

What are the Health Benefits of Manicotti?

Manicotti can be a healthy addition to your diet when made with the right ingredients. Pasta made from whole wheat is a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels. Ricotta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, and the tomato-based sauce provides a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.