Nestled within the comforting embrace of golden pasta tubes lies a culinary treasure that promises to enchant both the eye and the palate: the Indulgent Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni Delight. This dish marries the vibrant earthiness of fresh spinach with the luscious silkiness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in a velvety cream sauce that whispers indulgence with every bite. Perfect for those seeking a harmonious blend of wholesome greens and rich decadence, this cannelloni transforms simple ingredients into a timeless Italian classic reimagined with a sumptuous twist. Join us as we dive into the art and allure of crafting this irresistible delight, where comfort meets elegance on every plate.
Indulgent creamy spinach & ricotta cannelloni delight offers a luxurious taste experience that perfectly balances earthy greens and velvety cheese wrapped in tender pasta tubes. Originating from the heart of Italian culinary tradition, this harmonious dish transforms humble ingredients into an elegant entrée, evoking memories of rustic family dinners infused with warmth and love. Each bite delivers a succulent fusion of creamy ricotta mingled with vibrant sautéed spinach, while a smooth béchamel sauce crowns the creation, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Medium – Perfect for home cooks eager to elevate their pasta-making skills
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes (fresh or dried)
- 400g fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 400g ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- For the cream sauce (béchamel):
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, sifted
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Additional grated Parmesan, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté finely diced onion until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook an additional minute, ensuring it does not brown.
- Add spinach: Incorporate the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted and moisture evaporates, roughly 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and grated nutmeg for warming depth.
- Combine with ricotta: Transfer spinach mixture into a bowl and let it cool slightly. Fold in the ricotta and Parmesan cheese, blending until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter completely. Gradually whisk in sifted flour and cook the roux for 2-3 minutes until it develops a pale biscuit color, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stream in warm milk: Slowly pour the warmed milk into the roux, whisking vigorously to create a velvety smooth sauce. Continue cooking while stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and white pepper.
- Fill the cannelloni: Using a piping bag or small spoon, gently fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture, taking care not to overfill and risk tearing the pasta.
- Assemble the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange filled cannelloni in a single layer. Pour remaining béchamel evenly over the top, then sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to perfection: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly crust.
- Rest and serve: Allow the cannelloni to rest for 5 minutes before plating to let flavors settle and facilitate slicing.
Tips for Success
- Sauté spinach thoroughly: Removing excess moisture is key to avoiding a watery filling and soggy pasta.
- Ricotta drainage: Use well-drained ricotta or press it gently in a fine sieve to prevent watery consistency.
- Béchamel consistency: If the cream sauce becomes too thick, gradually whisk in a splash of milk until it reaches perfect flowing texture.
- Make ahead: Cannelloni can be assembled up to a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Substitutions: For a lighter alternative, replace whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and use part-skim ricotta.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation transforms this indulgent creamy spinach & ricotta cannelloni delight into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Serve on warm, elegant white plates and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair beautifully with a crisp mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a final flourish, a few toasted pine nuts scattered atop add a delightful textural crunch and nutty finish.
| Nutritional Info | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
For more inspired Italian pasta recipes, explore our classic lasagna with béchamel guide. To understand the science behind creamy béchamel sauces, The Culinary Institute of America offers excellent resources.
Q&A
Q&A: Indulgent Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni Delight
Q1: What makes this Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni so indulgent?
A1: The magic lies in the luscious creaminess of the ricotta combined with the vibrant, nutrient-rich spinach, all wrapped in tender pasta tubes and drenched in a velvety white sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of rich flavors and silky textures that feels like a comforting, yet sophisticated indulgence.
Q2: Can you describe the taste experience of this dish?
A2: Imagine creamy ricotta melting into lightly sautéed spinach, seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and garlic, then enveloped in silky pasta. The whole ensemble is bathed in a dreamy béchamel sauce, creating a delicate balance between savory, earthy, and subtly sweet notes. It’s a dish that warms your soul and excites your palate.
Q3: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A3: Absolutely! This dish is a vegetarian delight, packed with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, with no need for meat. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, meat-free meal without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Q4: What are some tips to make this cannelloni extra creamy?
A4: To boost creaminess, use full-fat ricotta and enrich the béchamel with a splash of cream or a knob of butter. Also, gently sauté the spinach to release moisture without making it watery, ensuring the filling remains lush and velvety.
Q5: How can I customize this dish?
A5: Get creative by adding sautéed mushrooms, pine nuts, or fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the filling. For a golden, bubbly finish, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking. You can also swap the béchamel for a tomato-based sauce for a tangy twist.
Q6: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A6: Yes! You can assemble the cannelloni ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding extra baking time, and enjoy a convenient, indulgent meal anytime.
Q7: What wine pairs best with this creamy spinach and ricotta cannelloni?
A7: A crisp, lightly oaked Chardonnay or a dry Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy richness beautifully, cutting through the cheesy layers with refreshing acidity. For a red option, try a light Pinot Noir that won’t overpower the delicate flavors.
Let your cooking adventure begin with this indulgent Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni – a creamy comfort that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet delight!
In Summary
As you savor each bite of this indulgent creamy spinach and ricotta cannelloni delight, you’ll discover how simple ingredients can transform into a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether served at a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe embodies the perfect harmony of rich, velvety textures and fresh, vibrant flavors. So next time you crave a meal that’s as satisfying as it is elegant, let these golden tubes of goodness inspire your culinary adventures-and remember, sometimes the most decadent dishes come wrapped in the humble embrace of pasta, spinach, and cheese. Bon appétit!
