Are you craving a comforting Italian classic without compromising your commitment to a healthy lifestyle? Indulge guilt-free in our meticulously crafted Weight Watchers Manicotti recipe that combines the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with smart ingredient choices to align with your wellness goals.
Ingredients for a Nutrient-Packed Twist:
Begin with 8 whole wheat manicotti shells, ensuring a higher fiber content for added nutritional benefits. The filling comprises a luscious blend of part-skim ricotta cheese, shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese, striking a perfect balance between creaminess and reduced fat content. A single beaten egg acts as a binding agent, enhancing the texture of the filling. To elevate the flavor profile, incorporate minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, and parsley, infusing each bite with aromatic goodness. Salt and pepper add the finishing touch, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal taste preferences.
Smart Choices for the Perfect Bake:
Opt for a low-point or homemade marinara sauce to envelop the manicotti, ensuring a burst of flavor without compromising your Weight Watchers plan. Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture, providing a delightful contrast between the tender pasta and the creamy interior. Bake the manicotti in a preheated oven at 375°F, covered with foil to preserve moisture and promote even cooking. During the final 10 minutes, unveil the dish to achieve a golden-brown perfection on top.
Savoring the Health-Conscious Results:
The result? A delectable, nutrient-packed dish that brings the authentic taste of manicotti to your table while adhering to your Weight Watchers goals. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, proving that wellness and indulgence can coexist seamlessly.
Conclusion:
Embrace the joy of cooking and eating well with our Weight Watchers Manicotti recipe – a testament to the idea that health-conscious choices need not compromise on taste. Delight in the wholesome satisfaction of a classic Italian dish, reimagined to align with your wellness journey.
weight watchers Manicotti
Ingredients:
For the Manicotti:
- 8 manicotti pasta shells (whole wheat for a healthier option)
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (choose a lower-point option or make your own)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Optional:
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Manicotti Shells:
- Cook the manicotti pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey or chicken until browned. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft and the meat is fully cooked. Remove from heat.
4. Make Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg. Add the cooked meat mixture and mix well.
5. Stuff Manicotti Shells:
- Using a spoon, stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the meat and cheese filling.
6. Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed manicotti shells in the dish.
7. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed manicotti. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
