Cavatini

Cavatini is a classic baked Italian pasta dish. While it has the reputation of being classic Italian, some would argue that the pepperoni used in the Cavatini is entirely American, as pepperoni is an American made salami. If you’re worried about having a truly authentic Italian dining experience, then simply replace the pepperoni with your preferred Italian salami; after all pepperoni is simply a spicy salami variation. Regardless of which side of the “Real Italian” debate you stand on, this dish is still delicious.

Health Benefits

Like most pasta dishes that we love, everything is dependent on the sauce. This cavatini uses a tomato based sauce prepared from tomato paste. Tomato paste is essentially concentrated tomatoes, so it contains the same health benefits as tomatoes. Regularly consuming tomato paste can help relieve diabetes, skin problems, urinary tract infections, and improve digestion. Tomatoes also improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol levels, and help the body detoxify by protecting vital organs like the kidneys.

Nutrition

Per Serving:

476 calories

25.9 g fat

36.6 g carbohydrates

24.2 g protein

66 mg cholesterol

1235 mg sodium

Ingredients

green bell pepper – chopped: 1

yellow onion (chopped): 1

cups pepperoni – sliced and quartered: 2

oz fresh mushrooms – sliced: 16

can tomato paste: 1

jar spaghetti sauce: 1

clove garlic – peeled and minced: 1

cup rigatoni pasta: 1

cup rotini pasta: 1

cup macaroni: 1

ricotta cheese: 1 lb

cups mozzarella cheese – shredded and divided: 2

cup Parmesan cheese (grated): 1/4

How To Make Cavatini

1. Combine green pepper, onion, pepperoni, mushrooms, tomato paste, spaghetti sauce, and garlic in a large saucepan.
2. Cover and simmer for one hour.
3. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
4. Cook pasta in boiling water for 8 - 10 minutes, or until al dente.
5. Drain the pasta.
6. Preheat oven to 175°
7. Mix together pasta, ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, and Parmesan.
8. Alternate pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Top with sauce and the remaining mozzarella.
10. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
11. Let sit for 5 - 10 minutes before serving.
12. Serve and enjoy!

Trivia

In the 1970's Pizza Hut was well known for its cavatini.