Low Calorie Pastiere
A light, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring cottage cheese, Romano cheese, and fresh parsley, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal suitable for health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat the eggs well.
- Add the cottage cheese, grated Romano cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine.
- Gently toss the cooked elbow macaroni into the mixture.
- Generously grease an 8 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Add the macaroni mixture to the prepared dish.
- Bake in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese. You can also substitute fresh parsley with spinach or basil for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add more texture, try incorporating some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a main or a side, similar to recipes like 'Pasta With Vegetables'.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pastiere warm, garnished with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Romano cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, you could enjoy it alongside 'Melt In Your Mouth Lasagna', creating a delightful Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until hot, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Calorie Pastiere contains roughly 573 calories, with 26g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1511mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the Romano cheese with Parmesan or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly, but it will still yield a delicious dish.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a healthier alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is cooked properly.
How do I incorporate more vegetables into this recipe?
You can add cooked spinach, broccoli, or even diced bell peppers into the mixture before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value, making it a great option for those who enjoy incorporating more vegetables into their meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).