Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce is a classic Italian dish, loved by people all over the world. With a perfect combination of creamy cheese filling and tangy tomato sauce, this dish is a party favorite. One serving of Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce (346 g) contains 490 calories.

If you're a cheese lover, this dish is perfect for you. Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce is an excellent source of calcium and protein, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients of Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce, its nutritional values, health benefits and serving suggestions. We'll also share some tips on how to make it more nutritious and delicious. So, let's get started!

What is Cheese Manicotti?

Cheese Manicotti is a pasta dish that consists of large pasta tubes filled with cheese and baked in the oven. The dish is traditionally made with ricotta cheese, but other cheeses such as cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese or parmesan cheese can also be used. It is usually served with a tomato-based sauce, such as marinara or arrabbiata sauce. Cheese Manicotti is a comfort food that is popular in Italy and the United States, and is often served at parties or holiday gatherings. The name 'manicotti' derives from the Italian word 'maniche' which means 'sleeves' due to its tubular shape.

How many calories does Cheese Manicotti have?

One serving (346 g) of Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce contains 490 calories, which is relatively high compared to other pasta dishes. However, it is a good source of protein and calcium which makes it a nutritious meal option. If you're watching your calorie intake, you can reduce the amount of cheese filling or opt for a low-fat cheese option. You can also substitute regular pasta with whole wheat pasta to make it healthier.

What are the ingredients of Cheese Manicotti?

The main ingredients of Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce are pasta tubes, cheese filling, and marinara sauce. Here are the ingredients and quantities you will need to make Cheese Manicotti: - 12 uncooked manicotti shells - 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, and 2 beaten egg yolks for the cheese filling. For the marinara sauce, you will need 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, 1/4 cup tomato paste, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

What is Marinara Sauce?

Marinara sauce is a tomato-based sauce that originated in Naples, Italy. It is made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme. Marinara sauce can be served with a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood.

How does Marinara Sauce complement Cheese Manicotti?

The tangy tomato-based marinara sauce complements the creamy cheese filling of Cheese Manicotti perfectly. The sauce adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish and balances out the richness of the cheese filling. It also enhances the texture and overall appeal of the dish.

What are the nutritional values of Cheese Manicotti?

Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce is a good source of protein and calcium. One serving provides 30 grams of protein and 75% of your daily calcium requirement. However, it is also high in calories, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium.

What are the health benefits of Cheese Manicotti?

Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce has several health benefits. The dish is a good source of protein which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs. The calcium in the cheese filling helps to maintain strong bones and teeth. The tomatoes in the marinara sauce are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

What are some serving suggestions for Cheese Manicotti?

Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience: - Sprinkle some fresh parsley, basil, or oregano on top for added flavor and color. - Serve with garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.

How can you make Cheese Manicotti more nutritious?

If you want to make Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce healthier, here are some tips: - Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase fiber and reduce refined carbohydrates. - Use low-fat ricotta cheese or cottage cheese instead of full-fat ricotta cheese to reduce calories and saturated fat.

How can you make Cheese Manicotti more delicious?

If you want to make Cheese Manicotti with Marinara Sauce more delicious, here are some tips: - Add some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to the cheese filling for added flavor and nutrients. - Sprinkle some shredded parmesan cheese on top of the dish before baking to create a crispy, cheesy crust.