Ricotta Spinach Cannelloni: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
Introduction
Cannelloni, a beloved Italian dish, is a wonderful way to enjoy pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy filling. This recipe for Ricotta Spinach Cannelloni adds a delightful twist with the combination of smooth ricotta cheese and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is both delicious and effortless to make.
Ingredients:
– 250g fresh spinach leaves
– 250g ricotta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 200g cannelloni tubes
– 400g passata (strained tomatoes)
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
Preparing the Filling:
1. Start by wilting the spinach leaves in a pan over medium heat. Once wilted, chop the spinach finely and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and translucent.
3. Add the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Mix everything well until the filling is combined and creamy. Set aside to cool.
Assembling the Cannelloni:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-assisted).
2. Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully stuff each cannelloni tube with the ricotta spinach filling.
3. In a baking dish, spread a layer of passata on the bottom.
4. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes in the baking dish in a single layer.
5. Pour the remaining passata over the cannelloni, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the cannelloni.
Baking the Cannelloni:
1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Once done, remove the cannelloni from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Enjoying:
Serve the Ricotta Spinach Cannelloni hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread.
Conclusion
Ricotta Spinach Cannelloni is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The creamy ricotta cheese and nutritious spinach filling, paired with the tangy passata and savory Parmesan cheese, create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you are a pasta lover or looking for a new recipe to try, this Ricotta Spinach Cannelloni is a must-try dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home.