Eggplant Parmesan Casserole: Calories and Nutrition Analyse

Discover the Nutritional Benefits of Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole is not just a delicious comfort food; it's also packed with nutritional benefits that can play a vital role in a healthy diet. This dish, with its rich layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs, offers a delightful experience for the taste buds while contributing essential nutrients to your diet. Let's dive into the nutritional profile of Eggplant Parmesan Casserole and understand why it can be a healthy addition to your meal plan.

Calories and Macronutrients

One serving of Eggplant Parmesan Casserole contains approximately 158 calories. This makes it a moderate-calorie dish that can fit into various dietary needs, especially when portion control is practiced. The macronutrients are balanced, providing a mix of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates:

• Carbohydrates: 8.68 grams, with 1.9 grams of fiber and 2.88 grams of sugar. The fiber content aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Fat: 11.18 grams, which helps in the absorption of vitamins and provides energy. It's important to note the type of fat used in the recipe can affect the healthiness of the dish.
• Protein: 6.59 grams, essential for muscle repair and growth. This makes Eggplant Parmesan Casserole a good option for vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and Minerals

This casserole is not just about taste; it's also a source of various vitamins and minerals that are crucial for body functions:

• Calcium: 159 mg, important for bone health and muscle function.
• Iron: 0.68 mg, plays a key role in the production of red blood cells.
• Magnesium: 17 mg, supports muscle and nerve function and energy production.
• Potassium: 217 mg, helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure.
• Vitamin C: 2.6 mg, supports the immune system and skin health.
• Vitamin E: 1.24 mg, acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.

Role in a Healthy Diet

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole can be a nutritious addition to your diet, especially when made with a focus on low-fat cheese options and baked instead of fried eggplant slices to reduce the fat content. The dish's high water content, 71.74%, also helps in hydration and making you feel satiated. Moreover, by adjusting the portion size, it can easily fit into a weight management plan.

However, it's important to consider the sodium content, which is 356 mg per serving. Those monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management may want to adjust the amount of added salt or look for low-sodium cheese and tomato sauce options.

Conclusion

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole is a flavorful and nutritious dish that offers a good balance of calories, macronutrients, and essential vitamins and minerals. By making mindful choices in the preparation and portion sizes, it can be a delightful part of a balanced diet. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, Eggplant Parmesan Casserole is a tasty option that supports your health goals.