Mediterranean Shells: A Delightful Twist on Stuffed Pasta
If you’re in search of a unique yet simple dish that brings together the wholesome flavors of the Mediterranean, look no further than these delectable Mediterranean Shells. Originally clipped from a magazine a decade ago, this recipe has stood the test of time, proving to be not only a special treat but also a quick option for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and satisfying. With a cooking time of just 25 minutes and a preparation time of 20 minutes, this dish is as efficient as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a snack.
Recipe Overview
| Cook Time | Prep Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 |
Description
These Mediterranean Shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, feta, and spinach, all nestled in tender pasta shells and baked in a savory sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 24 shells |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Frozen chopped spinach | 1 package (10 oz) |
| Feta cheese | 1 cup, crumbled |
| Part-skim ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh dill (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Fresh dill sprig (for garnish) | 1 sprig |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 228.1 |
| Total Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 118.6 mg |
| Sodium | 556.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugars | 3.1 g |
| Protein | 14.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pasta Shells: Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but be sure to omit the salt from the boiling water. This will ensure the flavors of the filling shine through.
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Sauté the Onion: While the pasta shells are cooking, heat the olive oil in a nonstick 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté it until it becomes tender and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat.
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Mix the Filling: To the skillet with the sautéed onion, stir in the frozen chopped spinach (which can be thawed slightly for easier mixing), crumbled feta cheese, part-skim ricotta cheese, chopped fresh dill, freshly ground black pepper, and the eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
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Preheat the Oven: As you prepare the filling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will allow the dish to bake evenly and become bubbly and golden.
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Fill the Shells: Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain them and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Drain again thoroughly. Now, carefully fill each shell with a rounded tablespoon of the cheese and spinach mixture, ensuring each shell is generously packed.
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Prepare the Sauce: Next, prepare a simple soup mix (such as tomato or vegetable soup) according to the package instructions, but only simmer it over medium-high heat for about 1 minute to thicken the sauce slightly. Pour the sauce into a shallow 2½-quart ceramic or glass casserole dish.
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Arrange the Shells: Gently place the filled pasta shells into the prepared sauce, ensuring they are nestled comfortably. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.
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Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the shells are hot and bubbly. The aroma that wafts through your kitchen during this time will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal.
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Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and uncover it carefully. For a beautiful presentation, garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh dill before serving. Each shell promises a burst of flavor, making this Mediterranean dish a fantastic addition to your lunch or snack repertoire.
In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a plateful of these Mediterranean Shells, a dish that combines the delightful textures of pasta with a savory filling that will leave you satisfied and wanting more. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your culinary journey to the Mediterranean!
