Name: Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 clove garlic, minced; 1 bay leaf, fresh (sub dried); 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/3 cup tomato paste; 800 g canned crushed tomato; 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock/broth, low sodium; 1/3 cup Chardonnay or other dry white wine (sub more stock); 3/4 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tsp sugar; 1/3 tsp black pepper; 2/3 cup basil leaves, roughly torn (recommended but not critical); 250 g frozen chopped spinach, thawed ((Note 1)); 500 g ricotta, full fat please ((Note 2)); 1/3 cup parmesan, finely shredded; 1 cup shredded cheese (Mozzarella, Colby, Cheddar, Tasty, Gruyere, Swiss); 1 each egg; 1 large garlic clove, minced; Grated fresh nutmeg (just a sprinkling) or 1/8 tsp nutmeg powder ((optional)); 3/4 tsp cooking / kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 18 - 22 tubes dried cannelloni ((250g pack) or 14 manicotti tubes (8.8 oz)); 1/3 cup parmesan, finely shredded; 1 1/4 cups shredded Mozzarella; More basil and parmesan, for garnish ((optional))

Introduction to Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Why Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a Hit

If you're looking for a comforting dish that combines flavor and nutrition, look no further than Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni. This classic Italian recipe embraces the earthy goodness of spinach paired with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in tender pasta tubes. What’s not to love?

This dish stands out not just for its delightful taste but also for its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or hosting a gathering for friends, Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni can easily be scaled to feed any crowd. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead; just assemble, freeze, and bake when you're ready.

The simple, fresh ingredients contribute to a healthy meal option that nourishes without compromising on taste. According to the USDA, spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to boost their nutrient intake (source: USDA FoodData Central).

So, why not impress your loved ones with this stunning, delicious, and utterly satisfying dish? Dive into our beloved recipe for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni and savor the experience—your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Creating a delectable Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni starts with sourcing the right ingredients. Let’s break it down for you.

Essential Ingredients for the Sauce

The foundation of any good cannelloni is a rich, flavorful sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil, onion, and garlic for sautéing
Bay leaf, dried thyme, and oregano to add depth
Tomato paste and canned crushed tomatoes for that classic Italian flavor
Low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock to bring it all together
A touch of sugar and pepper to balance the acidity

For more detailed insights into each ingredient, check out this guide on sauces.

Filling Ingredients Breakdown

Your filling should sing harmoniously with the sauce. Grab these:

Frozen chopped spinach (thawed) for convenience
Full-fat ricotta to keep it creamy
A blend of parmesan and shredded cheese for richness
An egg to bind it all together
Fresh nutmeg, if you’re feeling adventurous

Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning!

Cannelloni Specifics

The star of this dish is, of course, the cannelloni itself. Aim for:

18-22 dried cannelloni tubes (no boiling required!)
Extra parmesan and shredded mozzarella for the top

If you prefer manicotti, those make a great substitute too! Cooking should be about enjoying the process, so pick whichever style you love most.

Ready to dive into making this comforting dish? Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Creating a delicious Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni from scratch is not only rewarding but also a great way to impress your family or friends. Let's break down the process into manageable steps so you can easily navigate through it.

Prepare the Sauce

The base of your cannelloni lies in a rich, homemade tomato sauce. Here’s how you can create it effortlessly:

Sauté your aromatics: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small pot over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, a bay leaf, along with dried thyme and oregano. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
Add the tomatoes: Mix in ⅓ cup of tomato paste, and cook for another minute. This adds depth to your sauce. Follow this up by pouring in canned crushed tomatoes, vegetable or chicken stock (4 cups), and a sprinkle of salt, sugar, and black pepper to taste.
Simmer and blend: Let the sauce simmer on medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Once done, remove the bay leaf and use a stick blender to puree the sauce until smooth. Stir in fresh basil and keep it warm until you’re ready to assemble.

Make the Filling

While your sauce is simmering, you can whip up the filling:

Prep the spinach: If using frozen chopped spinach, thaw it and press it in a colander to squeeze out excess liquid, ensuring your filling won't become watery. If you prefer fresh spinach, wilt about 500g in some oil and then press it dry.
Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the thawed spinach, ricotta cheese (500g), finely shredded parmesan (⅓ cup), shredded cheese (1 cup), an egg, minced garlic, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary!

Assemble the Cannelloni

Now comes the fun part—filling and assembling!

Prepare your baking pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Choose a baking dish that can fit around 20 cannelloni tubes comfortably.
Start layering: Spread 1 cup of sauce at the bottom of your pan. Fill a piping bag with the spinach and ricotta mixture (or use a sturdy ziplock bag) and pipe the filling into each cannelloni tube. Place the filled tubes in the baking dish and cover them with the remaining sauce.

Bake to Perfection

Baking your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni transforms the flavors beautifully:

Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This ensures that the cannelloni cook through nicely.
Cheese it up: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle with more parmesan and mozzarella cheese (about 1 ¼ cups). Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Final Touches

Before serving, add a touch of elegance with just a few finishing touches:

Garnish: Consider garnishing your cannelloni with extra parmesan and fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve hot: This dish is best served fresh from the oven, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dining table.

And there you have it—your homemade Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni ready to be enjoyed! Whether for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. For more tips and variations, check out this source on Italian cooking techniques. Enjoy!

Variations on Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Adding Protein Choices

Want to elevate your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni? Try incorporating protein! Adding cooked turkey bacon or shredded chicken ham can bring a savory, hearty dimension to the filling. If you’re looking for plant-based options, chickpeas or lentils are fantastic substitutes packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Just mix them into your filling for a delightful crunch.

Vegetarian Twists

For a unique twist, consider switching out the traditional ricotta for goat cheese or feta. Both options will provide a tangy flavor that complements spinach beautifully. You could also add roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for an exciting array of textures and flavors. These enhancements make your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni not just a meal but an experience to share with friends or family.

For more unique recipe variations, check out authority sites such as BBC Good Food or Serious Eats.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Helpful Preparation Tips

When preparing your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni, ensure you squeeze the excess moisture from the spinach to achieve a perfect filling consistency. Using a piping bag makes filling the tubes much easier, but a sturdy ziplock bag can work just as well. For a flavorful sauce, consider using low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock. If you opt for fresh spinach, be sure to wilt it down before mixing it into your filling.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This dish is fantastic for meal prep! Assemble your uncooked cannelloni with the sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw before baking, adding a splash of water to the sauce if needed. For best results, reheat cooked leftovers in the microwave, covered, to maintain moisture. Explore more about meal prep and freezing techniques here.

Serving Suggestions for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Pairing with Side Dishes

To elevate your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni, consider pairing it with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the creamy filling beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasted garlic bread on the side for an extra crunch. For something more substantial, a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, adds both color and nutrients to your plate.

Presentation Ideas

Presentation matters! Serve your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni in a bright, shallow dish to keep the focus on the beautiful layers of cheese and sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh basil and extra parmesan on top just before serving. You might also consider adding edible flowers for a pop of color. This not only makes your dish Instagram-ready but also impresses your guests!

For more on Italian side dishes, check out this resource from Martha Stewart.

Time Breakdown for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Preparation Time

In just 25 minutes, you can prep the delicious filling and flavorful sauce for your Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni. This time allows for chopping, mixing, and getting everything ready for assembly.

Cooking Time

Once your dish is assembled, it will take 35 minutes to bake to perfection. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully, and the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping.

Total Time

All in all, your total time investment for this delightful meal is 1 hour. Perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family, especially when you can make it ahead of time or even freeze some for later enjoyment!

For more tips on meal prep or freezing, be sure to check out this guide on the best foods to freeze.

Nutritional Facts for Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Calories per Serving

Each hearty serving of Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni packs a satisfying 531 calories. This makes it a fulfilling choice for dinner, especially if you're looking for a meal that balances deliciousness with nutritional value.

Protein and Carbohydrate Content

In terms of nutritional breakdown, you'll find about 24 grams of protein, thanks to the ricotta and spinach filling. The carbohydrate content stands at approximately 60 grams, making this dish a great source of energy. Pair it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal. For more specific nutritional information, consider checking official resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

FAQs about Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Can I substitute spinach with another green?

Absolutely! If you're looking to switch things up, you can use kale, Swiss chard, or even sautéed broccoli rabe as an alternative to spinach. Just be sure to chop them finely and pre-cook if needed, as you want your filling to have the right texture.

What if I don’t have cannelloni tubes?

No worries at all! If you can’t find cannelloni, manicotti shells are a fantastic substitute—you’ll just need to slightly adjust the amount you use. Alternatively, you could layer the filling between fresh lasagna sheets, creating a delightful baked pasta dish that’s still packed with flavor.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Great question! This Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni recipe is already vegetarian since it features a delicious blend of spinach and ricotta cheese. Just ensure the cheese you use is rennet-free if you want it to be strictly vegetarian. Enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s meat-free yet fully satisfying!

For more tips on substitutions and variations, check out resources like Serious Eats or Vegetarian Times.

Conclusion on Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

In summary, Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is both heartwarming and versatile. Don't forget to share your creations, and enjoy this sumptuous meal!

For more on the benefits of spinach, check out Healthline and for tips on cooking pasta perfectly, visit BBC Good Food.