Macarrones a la Cazuela

Macarrones a la Cazuela is a delightful Spanish pasta dish that combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors, perfect for a healthy meal. This baked pasta is packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Whole wheat macaroni - 150 grams
• Chicken breast, diced - 150 grams
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Red bell pepper, diced - 1 medium
• Zucchini, diced - 1 medium
• Spinach, fresh - 100 grams
• Crushed tomatoes - 200 grams
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Low-fat cheese, grated - 50 grams
• Fresh parsley, chopped - for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the whole wheat macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the fresh spinach, crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the grated low-fat cheese on top, and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 55 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from whole wheat pasta and vegetables, promoting digestive health.
• Lean protein from chicken supports muscle health and satiety.

Tags