Spinach Cannelloni Or Ravioli Filling
Creamy spinach filling with prosciutto and cheeses, perfect for stuffed cannelloni or ravioli, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture suited for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach according to package directions.
- Drain well until almost dry.
- In a skillet, melt butter and add chopped onion. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add chopped prosciutto, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and pepper.
- Mix well until combined.
- Place 2 tablespoons of spinach filling down the center of each dried pasta square.
- Fold the opposite edges together over the filling to form a tube.
- Place cannelloni in a baking dish with a single layer of tomato sauce, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat until all cannelloni are formed.
- Spoon more tomato sauce on top of the cannelloni and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce starts to bubble.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to the ricotta. If you don't have prosciutto, cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms can provide a similar depth of flavor. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent a watery filling, which can affect the texture of your cannelloni. Using fresh spinach instead of frozen can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach cannelloni pair beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside Italian Corn Bread or a light vegetable dish. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and presentation. A glass of Chianti or a light white wine complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach cannelloni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of tomato sauce to keep them moist, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Cannelloni Or Ravioli Filling contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it until wilted, then chop and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the filling mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your cannelloni.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the filling. You can also increase the amount of cheese for added richness.
What type of sauce is best for serving with cannelloni?
A classic marinara sauce works beautifully with spinach cannelloni, but you can also try a creamy Alfredo sauce or a light pesto for a different flavor. Just ensure the sauce complements the filling without overpowering it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).