Mouth-Watering Vegetarian Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni Recipe
When looking for a hearty and delicious vegetarian meal that is both flavorful and delightful, look no further than this Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni recipe. Packed with nutritious spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, flavorful seasonings, and comforting pasta, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or special gathering. The combination of the rich ricotta and the vibrant spinach creates a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for more. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a meal that is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 250g fresh spinach
– 250g ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 pack of dried cannelloni tubes
– 500g passata
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 100g grated mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
Preparing the Spinach & Ricotta Filling:
1. Start by wilting the spinach. Wash the spinach thoroughly and then place it in a large pan without any extra water. Cook over medium heat until wilted.
2. Once the spinach is cooked, drain it well and chop it finely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until you have a smooth and creamy filling.
Assembling the Cannelloni:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Take a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off to make filling the cannelloni easier.
3. Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Make sure the filling is packed in tightly.
4. Place the filled cannelloni tubes in a baking dish in a single layer.
Finishing Touches:
1. Pour the passata over the cannelloni tubes, making sure they are well covered.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly.
3. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving:
1. Once the cannelloni is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of colour and added flavour.
This Vegetarian Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni recipe is a true crowd pleaser, combining the richness of the cheese with the freshness of the spinach for a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal that is sure to become a family favourite. Enjoy the delicious flavours and textures of this delightful dish, perfect for any occasion.