Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu)

🍝 Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu) 🍝

What is it?
Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu) is a delicious and healthier version of the classic Italian dish, stuffed pasta shells. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal made with jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, smothered in a flavorful tomato sauce, and baked to perfection. This Lite-Bleu version aims to reduce the calorie and fat content without compromising on taste.

History:
The origins of stuffed pasta dishes like stuffed shells can be traced back to Italian cuisine. These dishes have been enjoyed for generations, with various regional variations and family recipes. The concept of filling pasta shells with ricotta cheese and baking them in tomato sauce likely evolved over time as a way to create a hearty and satisfying meal. The Lite-Bleu variation emerged as a response to the growing interest in healthier eating options.

Components:

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Low-fat mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Marinara or tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder

Steps to Prepare:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, low-fat mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, a beaten egg, and seasonings (salt, pepper, and garlic powder). Mix until well combined.

3. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the ricotta cheese mixture. Fill them generously but not too tightly.

4. Layer with Sauce: In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara or tomato sauce. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer.

5. Cover with More Sauce: Pour more sauce over the stuffed shells until they are fully covered.

6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the stuffed shells for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are hot and bubbly.

7. Garnish: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

8. Serve: Serve Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu) hot, and enjoy!

Time Needed:

• Preparing the ingredients: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking the pasta shells: 10-12 minutes
• Assembling and baking: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 50-60 minutes

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It combines the richness of traditional stuffed shells with a lighter twist, making it a favorite for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing taste. 😊🍽️👌

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu):

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving.
• Total Fat: 10-12 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
• Cholesterol: 40-50 milligrams
• Sodium: 600-700 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 5-6 grams
• Protein: 15-18 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: This Lite-Bleu version of stuffed shells is relatively moderate in calories, making it suitable for individuals aiming to manage their calorie intake.

2. Reduced Saturated Fat: The use of low-fat mozzarella and a reduction in high-fat cheeses like ricotta can help reduce the saturated fat content compared to traditional stuffed shells.

3. Protein: With 15-18 grams of protein per serving, this dish provides a decent protein boost, which is important for muscle health and satiety.

4. Moderate Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the type of sauce and cheese used, so it’s important to choose lower-sodium options for a healthier meal.

5. Carbohydrates: Stuffed shells are a source of carbohydrates, providing energy. The dietary fiber content can be increased by serving them with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

6. Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet. One serving typically includes a few stuffed shells.

7. Nutrient Variation: The nutrient content may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used, so it’s a good practice to check food labels for accurate nutrition information.

Remember that individual dietary needs may vary, so it’s essential to adapt recipes to meet your specific health goals and dietary restrictions. Enjoy Anthony’s Favorite Stuffed Shells (Lite-Bleu) in moderation as part of a balanced diet! 🍽️🥗👍