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Introduction
Cheese Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. This delectable recipe combines creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, enveloped in tender pasta tubes and covered with a rich marinara sauce, making it a wonderful choice for family dinners or special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cannelloni tubes: 250 grams
Ricotta cheese: 500 grams
Fresh spinach, chopped: 250 grams
Grated mozzarella cheese: 150 grams
Grated Parmesan cheese: 50 grams
Marinara sauce: 500 ml
Eggs: 2
Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
Salt: 5 grams
Black pepper: 5 grams
Fresh basil, chopped: 10 grams
Olive oil: 10 ml
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, spinach, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
5. Fill the uncooked cannelloni tubes with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a small spoon or piping bag.
6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni tubes, ensuring they are fully covered.
9. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
12. Garnish with chopped basil before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 5: Fill the Cannelloni
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill the uncooked cannelloni tubes with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 7: Arrange the Cannelloni
Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Step 8: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni tubes, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 9: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 10: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Step 11: Uncover and Continue Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the dish with chopped basil before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese cannelloni with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
This dish can be frozen before baking. Just cover well with foil and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the filling, such as mushrooms or nutmeg, for added flavor.
Cooking Tip
Ensure the cannelloni tubes are fully cooked by checking that the cheese is melted and bubbly and that the pasta is tender.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store any leftover Cheese Cannelloni in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cannelloni tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheese Cannelloni warm, garnished with fresh basil. Pair it with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to complete the meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the dish beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 20g
– Total Fat: 22g
– Saturated Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 5g
– Sodium: 550mg
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
– **Ricotta Cheese**: You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different texture.
– **Fresh Spinach**: Frozen spinach, thawed and drained, works well if fresh spinach is unavailable.
– **Mozzarella Cheese**: Substitute with fontina or provolone cheese for a different flavor profile.
– **Parmesan Cheese**: Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative for seasoning.
– **Eggs**: For a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
– **Marinara Sauce**: Any tomato-based pasta sauce can be used in place of marinara.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat. In this recipe, garlic is sautéed to release its flavor, and spinach is cooked until wilted before being combined with ricotta.
Mixing
Mixing is essential when combining ingredients to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures. In this recipe, the ricotta, spinach, eggs, salt, and pepper are mixed well to create a cohesive filling for the cannelloni.
Stuffing
Stuffing involves filling a food item with a mixture. Here, uncooked cannelloni tubes are filled with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a small spoon or piping bag, ensuring they are filled evenly for better cooking.
Baking
Baking is a method of cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat in an oven. In this recipe, the filled cannelloni is baked covered with sauce and cheese, which helps the flavors meld together and creates a golden, bubbly topping.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the technique of adding a finishing touch to a dish for both visual appeal and flavor. This recipe uses chopped basil to enhance the presentation and add freshness to the dish before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it with the ricotta to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or even a mix of cream cheese and yogurt for a similar texture, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cannelloni and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Is there a gluten-free option for cannelloni?
You can find gluten-free cannelloni tubes made from alternative flours, such as rice or corn, allowing you to make this dish gluten-free.
What should I serve with cheese cannelloni?
Cheese cannelloni pairs well with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Cannelloni is a versatile dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making it a beloved favorite among pasta enthusiasts. The creamy ricotta and fresh spinach filling, paired with gooey melted cheese and savory marinara, creates a delightful meal suitable for any occasion. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also brings warmth and comfort to the dining table, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheese Cannelloni with Mushrooms
Swap spinach for sautéed mushrooms to add an earthy flavor and depth to your cannelloni.
Vegetable Lasagna
Layer noodles with ricotta, seasonal vegetables, and marinara sauce for a hearty alternative to cannelloni.
Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Use large pasta shells instead of cannelloni tubes, filled with the ricotta spinach mixture and topped with marinara and cheese.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
Combine cooked pasta with a creamy cheese sauce, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a quick and comforting bake.
Manicotti with Pesto
Fill manicotti tubes with ricotta and spinach, then drizzle with pesto for a fresh twist.
Creamy Spinach Risotto
For a lighter dish, try a creamy risotto incorporating spinach and parmesan for a full-bodied Italian flavor.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the ricotta and spinach filling with cooked rice and stuff it into bell peppers, then bake until tender.
Italian Veggie Pizza
Top your favorite pizza dough with a thin layer of marinara, spinach, ricotta, and an abundance of mozzarella for a cheesy delight.
