I love the creamy texture, the rich flavors, and the comforting warmth of cannelloni with spinach and ricotta. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender spinach, smooth ricotta, and tangy marinara sauce creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. Want to know the secret to making it even more delicious? Let’s get started.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Cannelloni With Spinach and Ricotta recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor, ideal for a hearty meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, the rich and creamy texture, and the wholesome ingredients.
– Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for any cook.
– Creamy Texture: Ricotta and spinach blend perfectly for a luxurious bite.
– Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach and ricotta for a nutritious dish.
Recipe
Cannelloni with spinach and ricotta is a classic Italian dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and savory tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. This comforting and flavorful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and wilted
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, wilted spinach, half of the Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta and spinach mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni, guaranteeing they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes:
- You can substitute marinara sauce with homemade tomato sauce for a more personalized flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, ascertain the cheese and pasta are free from animal rennet.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving:
Serves 4
Calories:
Approximately 450 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Italian
Equipment
Preparing cannelloni with spinach and ricotta requires a few essential tools to guarantee smooth preparation and assembly. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process efficient and enjoyable.
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches or similar size)
- Saucepan for cooking spinach
- Strainer or colander
- Sharp knife or kitchen scissors
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Piping bag or small spoon for filling cannelloni tubes
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering during baking)
Nutrition
Cannelloni with spinach and ricotta is a nutritious dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a balanced meal.
- High in protein from ricotta cheese and eggs
- Rich in iron and fiber from spinach
- Provides calcium for bone health
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil
- Offers complex carbohydrates from pasta for sustained energy
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I make cannelloni with spinach and ricotta, I like to pair it with a fresh salad to balance the richness, and a crusty loaf of bread for soaking up the sauce. A glass of light red wine or crisp white wine complements the dish perfectly, but if you’re skipping alcohol, a sparkling water with lemon does the trick. To round out the meal, roasted vegetables or a simple dessert like tiramisu always leave my guests happy.
Salad Pairings
What’s better than a fresh, crisp salad to balance out a rich dish like cannelloni? I love pairing it with salad types like arugula or mixed greens—their peppery bite complements the creamy ricotta perfectly. For flavor combinations, I add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light lemon vinaigrette. It’s simple, invigorating, and lets the cannelloni shine while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
Bread Suggestions
Though cannelloni is already a hearty dish, I can’t resist adding a side of warm, crusty bread to complete the meal. Garlic bread is my go-to, but focaccia variations like rosemary or sundried tomato are just as delicious. Breadsticks options are great for dipping, while a crusty baguette or ciabatta pairings soak up sauces perfectly. Don’t forget herbed rolls—they’re soft, fragrant, and always a hit.
Wine Selections
Pairing the right wine with cannelloni can really elevate the meal, and I’ve found that lighter reds and crisp whites work best. For red wine, try a Pinot Noir—it’s smooth and won’t overpower the dish. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio as a white wine complements the creamy ricotta and spinach perfectly. My pairing tip? Match the wine’s flavor profiles to the dish’s richness for balance. Cheers!
Vegetable Sides
When I’m serving cannelloni with spinach and ricotta, I always think about adding a vegetable side to brighten up the plate and balance the richness. I love tossing together colorful grilled vegetables, like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant, for a smoky flavor. Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, add a sweet, earthy touch that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling. Both options make the meal feel complete.
Dessert Options
After enjoying the hearty flavors of cannelloni with spinach and ricotta, I like to finish the meal with something light and satisfying. For dessert pairings, I often go with fresh fruit like berries or a citrus salad. If I’m craving something sweeter, chocolate options like a small square of dark chocolate or a light chocolate mousse hit the spot perfectly without feeling too heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Cannelloni With Spinach and Ricotta?
Freezing it’s like locking in flavor in a time capsule. I’d recommend assembling the dish fully but baking later. For freezing tips, wrap it tightly with foil. Storage methods? Use airtight containers to avoid freezer burn.
Can I Substitute Ricotta With Cottage Cheese?
Yes, I can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta since it’s a good substitute. If I want a creamier texture, I might mix it with cream cheese to get closer to ricotta’s richness in flavor and consistency.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare Cannelloni With Spinach and Ricotta?
When I make it, the prep time’s about 20–30 minutes for filling and rolling. Then the cook time’s around 30–40 minutes in the oven. I’d say it takes me roughly an hour total from start to finish.
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Yes, I’d use fresh spinach because fresh spinach benefits include a brighter flavor and more nutrients. For fresh spinach preparation, I’ll wilt it in a pan after washing thoroughly—it’s quick and guarantees it blends perfectly.
Is Cannelloni With Spinach and Ricotta Gluten-Free?
I’ll check if it’s gluten free for you. Regular cannelloni isn’t gluten free, but cannelloni alternatives like gluten free pasta or zucchini rolls work. Make sure other ingredients are gluten free options too.
