As you step into the kitchen, the aroma of bubbling cheese and fresh herbs dances through the air, making your stomach rumble with anticipation. Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is not just a dish; it’s an experience that wraps you in layers of warmth and flavor, transporting you to a cozy Italian trattoria with every bite.
Imagine sitting around a table filled with laughter as you share this comforting meal with family and friends. The creamy ricotta mingles with vibrant spinach, all encased in tender pasta tubes. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a casual weeknight treat, this dish promises to be the star of the show, leaving everyone eagerly asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni features simple preparation that even novice cooks can master
- The luscious blend of flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress guests and family alike
- Its stunning presentation brightens any dinner table and is versatile enough for special occasions or everyday meals
- You can easily adapt it by adding different veggies or proteins based on your preference
Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they offer a mild flavor and beautiful color.
Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it’s key to achieving that dreamy texture.
Lasagna Sheets: Use oven-ready sheets for convenience; they’ll soak up all the delicious flavors while baking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a nutty depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Marinara Sauce: Opt for a good quality sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous; it ties everything together beautifully.
Eggs: Just one egg helps bind the filling, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
For the Sauce:
Fresh Basil: Add chopped basil leaves for freshness; they brighten up the dish with their aromatic notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray so that your cannelloni doesn’t stick like an awkward dance partner at a wedding.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the parmesan, and one beaten egg. Stir until well blended. Feel free to channel your inner chef here—if it feels right, toss in some garlic powder or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor!
Step 3: Assemble Your Cannelloni
Lay out your lasagna sheets on a clean surface. Take about two tablespoons of filling and carefully spread it along each sheet before rolling them up like little spinach rockets ready for launch!
Step 4: Layer It Up
Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place each rolled cannelloni seam-side down into the dish like soldiers ready for battle. Cover them generously with more marinara sauce, sprinkle remaining parmesan on top, and don’t forget those bright basil leaves!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil (you want those cannelloni steamy) and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and let them bask in their bubbly glory for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve With Style
Once baked to perfection, remove from oven; let them cool slightly (if you can resist!). Serve warm garnished with fresh basil on top—your friends will think you’ve been taking secret Italian cooking lessons!
Now that you’ve mastered Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni, get ready to bask in compliments from everyone at your dinner table!
You Must Know
- This delightful Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni recipe combines creamy ricotta and fresh spinach for a dish that’s comforting and elegant
- It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your cannelloni shells to al dente perfection. While they cool, sauté the spinach until wilted. Then mix the ricotta and herbs before stuffing the shells, layering them with marinara sauce in a baking dish for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for added creaminess. You can also swap out spinach for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to create a different flavor profile. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it retains its cheesy goodness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking your pasta shells to prevent them from breaking while stuffing
- Use fresh spinach over frozen for brighter flavors and better texture
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully
It was a rainy Sunday when I decided to impress my friends with this Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni recipe. Their delighted faces as they savored each bite made all the kitchen chaos worthwhile!
FAQs :
What is Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni?
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a delicious Italian dish made from pasta tubes filled with a mixture of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese. This dish is typically baked in a rich tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese, and served hot. It offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
How do I make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni from scratch?
To make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni from scratch, start by preparing the filling with sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, and Parmesan. Next, fill uncooked cannelloni tubes with the mixture. Place them in a baking dish layered with marinara sauce and top with mozzarella. Bake until bubbly and golden brown. This homemade approach enhances flavor while providing a satisfying cooking experience.
Can I freeze Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni?
Yes, you can freeze Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni for later enjoyment. After assembling the dish but before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed until heated through.
What can I serve with Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni?
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni pairs beautifully with various side dishes. A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar complements the richness of the cannelloni. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also works well to soak up any extra sauce. For an added touch, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
Conclusion for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni :
In conclusion, Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and nutritious spinach offers both taste and health benefits. Easy to prepare at home, this recipe allows you to impress family and friends alike. Whether you choose to freeze leftovers or serve it fresh from the oven, this delightful meal will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy each bite of this Italian classic!
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting Italian dish that combines creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta tubes. Baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce, this delightful meal is perfect for family gatherings or impressing guests. Its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation make it a true showstopper at any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 9 oven-ready lasagna sheets
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the parmesan, and the beaten egg until well combined.
- Lay out lasagna sheets, spread about two tablespoons of filling on each, and roll them up tightly.
- Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, place cannelloni seam-side down, cover with more sauce, and sprinkle with remaining parmesan and basil.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving garnished with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannelloni (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
