1 serving Five Cheese Marinara contains 330 calories. It's a delicious Italian dish that is loved by many. It's easy to prepare and is perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in.
This comforting pasta dish consists of a rich and creamy five-cheese sauce that perfectly complements the pasta. The combination of five different types of cheese gives the marinara sauce a unique and indulgent taste.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, ingredients, serving size, preparation method, allergy and dietary preferences, taste and texture, serving suggestions, health benefits, and recipe variations of this delicious dish.
One serving of Five Cheese Marinara contains 330 calories, 14 grams of fat, 7 grams of saturated fat, 25 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fiber, and 22 grams of protein. It also provides 20% of the daily recommended intake of calcium and 4% of iron. While this dish is not particularly low calorie, it is packed with nutrients and can be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.
Ingredients
To make one serving of Five Cheese Marinara, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked pasta
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded romano cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
Mix all the cheeses together and stir through the marinara sauce. Heat in a skillet until the cheese has melted and the sauce is heated through, then add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Serving Size
One serving of Five Cheese Marinara is typically 1 cup of cooked pasta with 1/2 cup of marinara sauce and 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. However, you can adjust the serving size according to your preferences or dietary requirements.
Preparation Method
The preparation method for Five Cheese Marinara is straightforward and easy. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and set aside. In a skillet, heat the marinara sauce and cheese mixture until the cheese has melted and the sauce is heated through. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Five Cheese Marinara contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. You can modify the recipe by using gluten-free pasta and non-dairy cheese substitutes if needed.
Dietary Preferences
Five Cheese Marinara is a versatile dish that can fit into many dietary preferences. It is high in protein and calcium, making it a good choice for those following a high-protein or calcium-rich diet. You can also modify the recipe to suit a vegetarian or gluten-free diet by using appropriate substitutes. The dish can be made healthier by reducing the amount of cheese used and adding more veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
Taste and Texture
Five Cheese Marinara has a rich and indulgent taste, and the combination of five different types of cheese creates a creamy and flavorful sauce. The pasta adds a chewy texture that complements the sauce well. Overall, the dish is filling and satisfying, making it a perfect comfort food for colder nights or when you are in need of a quick and easy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Five Cheese Marinara is a great standalone dish and can be enjoyed on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal. The dish can be garnished with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to add some color and freshness.
Health Benefits
Five Cheese Marinara contains a good amount of protein and calcium, which are essential nutrients for maintaining strong bones and muscles. The dish is also filling and can help you feel satiated for longer periods, making it a good option for those trying to manage their weight. However, the dish is not particularly low calorie, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Recipe Variations
Five Cheese Marinara can be customized to suit different taste preferences and dietary requirements. You can add some veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. You can also modify the recipe by using different types of pasta such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or vegetable pasta such as zucchini or carrot noodles. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used to make the dish healthier.
FAQs About Five Cheese Marinara
1. What is Five Cheese Marinara?
Five Cheese Marinara is a type of sauce that incorporates five different types of cheese into a marinara sauce base. The five types of cheese usually used in this recipe are mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, fontina and asiago.
2. How many calories does one serving of Five Cheese Marinara contain?
One serving of Five Cheese Marinara contains approximately 330 calories. Keep in mind that this calorie count can vary depending on the brand of sauce and portion size.
3. How do you use Five Cheese Marinara?
You can use Five Cheese Marinara in a variety of ways, such as as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or pizza crust, a topping for pasta dishes or as a sauce for homemade pizza. It is also delicious as a dip for vegetables or as a spread for sandwiches.
4. Is Five Cheese Marinara vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, Five Cheese Marinara is typically vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, it is important to check the ingredients list of the specific brand you are using to ensure that it does not contain any animal-based ingredients.
5. How can I make my own Five Cheese Marinara?
Making your own Five Cheese Marinara is easier than you might think! Start by sautéing some garlic in olive oil, then adding canned tomatoes and letting the mixture cook down. Then add your five cheeses and stir until they have melted into the sauce. You can also add additional spices such as oregano or red pepper flakes to customize the sauce to your liking.