Baked pasta

This is wonderful recipe for vegetarians who want to enliven their diet with a new recipe that has a bit of verve and imagination, but is also attractive to their non-vegetarian co-diners. So get inspired by our special baked pasta, not a classic lasagna, but nevertheless ideal for Sunday lunch. With plenty of flavour and very filling, it has nothing to fear from its meat based alternatives. Say goodbye - and maybe even convince some hardened carnivores to do the same - to the minced beef, ham and salami. Show them how healthy and tasty Emmental cheese makes a wonderful baked pasta. Are you ready to make it with us?

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
58g
Fat
22g
Fiber
2g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Total time
20 minutes Active time
Serves 3 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Heat a little olive oil in a pan and fry the garlic and chopped fresh tomato. Add the basil, passata and salt to taste. Cook the pasta until al dente. Combine the pasta with the prepared sauce. Add the diced mozzarella and mix well. Finish with a layer of breadcrumbs, olive oil and plenty of grated Emmental, then put in the oven under the grill for 10 minutes.

Tips
Accompany your special baked pasta with a lovely bottle of Barbera d’Alba
Trivia
Baked pasta dates back to Ancient Rome, where it was prepared mainly with vegetables or cheese.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Baked Pasta with Mozzarella and Fresh Tomato

One of the tastiest variations of traditional baked pasta is certainly the one prepared with mozzarella and fresh tomato. In this version, the fresh tomato, cut into pieces, is sautéed in a pan with garlic and a drizzle of oil, creating a rich and fragrant sauce. The pasta, cooked al dente, is then mixed with this sauce and enriched with cubes of mozzarella, which will melt during baking, giving the dish an irresistible creaminess. Finally, the pasta is sprinkled with breadcrumbs and abundant grated Emmental for a crispy and golden crust. This variation is perfect for those who love the fresh and authentic flavors of Italian cuisine.

Baked Pasta Marchigiana Style with Emmental

Baked pasta Marchigiana style is a typical preparation from the Marche region, characterized by simple yet high-quality ingredients. In this version, the pasta is dressed with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella, but typical regional ingredients such as sausage or mushrooms can also be added to further enrich the dish. Baking allows all the flavors to blend together, while the Emmental gratin gives a unique taste. The Marchigiana tradition is reflected in every bite, making this dish not just a meal, but a true journey through the flavors of the region.

Light Baked Pasta with Light Mozzarella and Tomato

For those seeking a lighter version of baked pasta, the light recipe calls for the use of light mozzarella and a reduction in the amount of oil. By using fresh tomatoes and a tomato puree without added sugars, a tasty sauce is achieved but with fewer calories. Additionally, it is possible to substitute traditional pasta with whole grain or gluten-free variants to adapt the dish to different dietary needs. This preparation retains the flavors of the original recipe but offers a healthier alternative, perfect for those who wish to enjoy a good dish without sacrificing their diet.

Benefits of Baked Pasta: Nutritional Values and Calories

Baked pasta, prepared with fresh ingredients like tomatoes and mozzarella, is a nutritious and balanced dish. The pasta provides complex carbohydrates, essential for our energy needs, while the tomato is rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which plays an important role in protecting cells. Mozzarella, a source of protein and calcium, contributes to the well-being of bones and muscles. On average, a serving of baked pasta can contain about 350-450 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of cheese. By choosing high-quality ingredients, it is possible to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Can Baked Pasta be Frozen?

Baked pasta can be frozen, but it is advisable to do so before baking. Once the dish is prepared and allowed to cool, it can be portioned and stored in airtight containers or food bags. In this way, it can be kept for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you wish to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it in the oven to achieve a crispy crust. However, it is important to note that the quality of the pasta may suffer from a long freezing period, so it is best to consume it within a reasonable time to fully appreciate its flavors.