Delicious Italian Cannelloni Recipe | Stuffed Pasta with Ricotta and Spinach (Vegetarian)

Introduction

This recipe provides a detailed guide to making Italian cannelloni, a type of stuffed pasta similar to stuffed shells. The cannelloni are filled with a ricotta and spinach mixture, covered with tomato and béchamel sauce, and baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• Spinach
• Ricotta cheese
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Small onion
• Olive oil
• Strained tomato puree
• Fresh basil
• Butter
• Flour
• Milk
• Nutmeg
• Cannelloni pasta
• Mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Spinach: In a large pot, cook the spinach with a quarter cup of water and salt until it reduces in volume. Drain and press out the excess water.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the drained ricotta and cooked spinach. Season with black pepper and salt. Chop the mixture into smaller pieces.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Dice a small onion and fry it in olive oil. Add the strained tomato puree and salt, cooking for 5-10 minutes until it starts to bubble. Add fresh basil and dilute the sauce with about a quarter cup of water.
4. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: Melt butter on low heat and whisk in the flour to form a paste. Gradually add milk, continuously whisking. Cook until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add nutmeg and salt.
5. Assemble the Cannelloni: Cover a baking pan with parchment paper and spread a thick layer of béchamel sauce. Fill the cannelloni with the ricotta and spinach mixture using a pastry bag. Place the filled cannelloni on the layer of white sauce.
6. Add Sauces and Bake: Cover the cannelloni with tomato sauce and some béchamel sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, add mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes plus a couple of minutes under the broiler until golden.
7. Serve: The cannelloni are ready to be served and enjoyed, even if they've cooled down a bit during the preparation process.

Conclusion

This Italian cannelloni recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and savory sauces, all encased in tender pasta shells. It's an excellent choice for a comforting meal that's sure to impress.