If you're a pasta lover, you've probably tried Manicotti at some point. This classic Italian dish is made by stuffing pasta shells with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and other ingredients, and then baking them in a tomato sauce. But how healthy is Manicotti? And what are the calories in 2 shells (183 g) of this delicious dish?

Two shells of Manicotti contain approximately 410 calories. The macronutrient breakdown for this serving size is 14g of fat, 53g of carbohydrates, and 21g of protein. In terms of vitamins and minerals, two shells of Manicotti provide 20% of the daily value (DV) for calcium, 15% of the DV for iron, and 8% of the DV for vitamin A.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of Manicotti in more detail, as well as some tips for making it healthier and some recipe ideas for using this versatile pasta.

Calories in 2 shells of Manicotti

As mentioned earlier, two shells of Manicotti contain approximately 410 calories. This makes it a relatively high-calorie dish, especially if you're trying to lose weight. However, it's important to note that not all calories are created equal. Manicotti contains a good amount of protein, which can help keep you feeling full for longer. It also provides some key nutrients, such as calcium and iron.

Macronutrient breakdown

Two shells of Manicotti provide 14g of fat, 53g of carbohydrates, and 21g of protein. This makes it a relatively high-carbohydrate dish, which may not be suitable for people following low-carb diets. However, the high protein content can be beneficial for muscle building and weight management.

Vitamins and minerals

Two shells of Manicotti provide 20% of the daily value (DV) for calcium, 15% of the DV for iron, and 8% of the DV for vitamin A. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while iron is essential for healthy blood cells. Vitamin A is important for eye health and immune function.

Health benefits of Manicotti

One of the main health benefits of Manicotti is its high protein content. Protein is important for building and repairing muscles, as well as for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It can also help with weight management, as it keeps you feeling full for longer. Manicotti also provides several key vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and iron. These are essential for good health, and can help prevent conditions such as osteoporosis and anemia.

Manicotti vs other Italian dishes

Compared to other Italian dishes, Manicotti is a relatively high-calorie option. However, it also provides more protein than many other pasta dishes, such as spaghetti and lasagna. In terms of fat content, it's important to note that this can vary depending on the ingredients used in the recipe. For example, a meat-filled Manicotti may be higher in fat than a vegetarian version.

Ways to make Manicotti healthier

One simple way to make Manicotti healthier is to use low-fat cheese in the filling. You can also use whole wheat pasta shells, which provide more fiber and nutrients than traditional white pasta. Another option is to reduce the amount of pasta in the dish and increase the amount of vegetables. For example, you could add spinach or kale to the filling, or serve the Manicotti with a side salad.

Recipe ideas using Manicotti

One classic way to prepare Manicotti is to stuff the shells with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, and bake them in a tomato sauce. Another option is to stuff them with ground meat, such as beef or pork. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can try making a vegetarian version using mushrooms, onions, and other veggies. Or, you could experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan.

How to store Manicotti

To store Manicotti in the refrigerator, first allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze Manicotti, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.

Tips for cooking Manicotti

When cooking Manicotti, be sure to cook the pasta shells until they're just al dente. Overcooked shells can fall apart when you try to stuff them. To make filling the shells easier, use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off. This will allow you to fill them more evenly and with less mess. Finally, be sure to use a good quality tomato sauce, as this can make or break the dish.

Common allergens in Manicotti

One of the main allergens in Manicotti is dairy, as it usually contains cheese and/or milk in the filling. If you're lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, you may want to avoid Manicotti or make a vegan version using tofu or other non-dairy cheese. Another common allergen in Manicotti is wheat, as it contains pasta shells made from wheat flour. If you have celiac disease or a wheat allergy, you can try using gluten-free pasta shells instead.