Classic Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni: A Comforting Italian Delight

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Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a classic Italian dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, nutritious spinach, and tender pasta tubes, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. This dish is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and inviting aroma. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through making this delightful meal.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 500g fresh spinach (or 300g frozen spinach)
  • 250g ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 50g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 800g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cannelloni:

  • 12-16 dried cannelloni tubes
  • 100g grated mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

  1. If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and squeeze out excess water, then chop finely.
  2. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely, drain, and squeeze out any excess water.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until well combined. The filling should be creamy and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Cannelloni

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the bottom of a large baking dish.
  3. Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. You can use a piping bag or a small spoon to make the filling process easier.
  4. Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the baking dish in a single layer.
  5. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the filled cannelloni, ensuring they are completely covered.
  6. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Remove the cannelloni from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.
  3. Serve the Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni hot, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

  • Filling the Cannelloni: To make filling the cannelloni easier, use a piping bag without a nozzle or with a large nozzle. This helps in avoiding any mess and ensures the filling is evenly distributed.
  • Tomato Sauce: For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of red wine while cooking the tomato sauce. This adds depth of flavor and pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Adding a bit of Gruyère or Pecorino Romano to the mozzarella topping can add a unique flavor twist.
  • Spinach: Ensure that the spinach is well-drained to avoid a watery filling. Squeezing out as much water as possible is key to a firm and creamy filling.
  • Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking, or bake for a slightly longer time if baking straight from the fridge.

Nutritional Information

While nutritional values can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, a typical serving of Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni (one tube) provides approximately:

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 200mg
  • Iron: 3mg

Conclusion

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of creamy ricotta, nutritious spinach, and flavorful tomato sauce makes it a hit with both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With this detailed recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!



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