Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni

Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni is a classic Italian dish known for its rich and savory flavors. It’s a popular pasta dish that features large pasta tubes (cannelloni) stuffed with a creamy mixture that mimics traditional ricotta cheese but is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

History:
The exact origin of cannelloni is not well-documented, but it is believed to have Italian roots, likely originating in the southern regions of Italy. Cannelloni, which means “large reeds” in Italian, refers to the pasta tubes used in this dish. Over time, it has become a beloved part of Italian cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide.

Components:
The key components of Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni are as follows:

1. Cannelloni Tubes: These are large cylindrical pasta tubes that are typically made from durum wheat semolina. They serve as the outer casing for the filling.

2. Spinach Filling: The filling consists of cooked spinach, which is usually blanched and finely chopped. It provides a vibrant green color and a fresh, earthy flavor.

3. ‘Ricotta’ Filling: To create a dairy-free ricotta-like filling, ingredients like blended tofu, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and various seasonings are often used. This mixture provides creaminess and a cheesy flavor.

4. Tomato Sauce: A rich tomato sauce, often made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs (such as basil and oregano), and sometimes a touch of red wine, is used to coat the cannelloni before baking.

5. Vegan Cheese (Optional): Some recipes include a sprinkle of dairy-free vegan cheese on top for added flavor and a cheesy crust when baked.

Steps to Prepare Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni:

Here is a general outline of the steps involved in preparing Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni:

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

Ingredients:

• Cannelloni tubes
• Spinach
• Tofu (for the ‘ricotta’ filling)
• Nutritional yeast
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Tomato sauce
• Vegan cheese (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Herbs and spices for seasoning

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ‘Ricotta’ Filling:

   • Blend tofu, nutritional yeast, minced garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings until smooth. Adjust the flavor and consistency to your liking.

2. Prepare the Spinach:

   • Blanch the spinach in boiling water for a minute or two, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture. Chop it finely.

3. Combine Spinach and ‘Ricotta’ Filling:

   • Mix the chopped spinach into the ‘ricotta’ filling until well combined.

4. Stuff the Cannelloni Tubes:

   • Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach ‘ricotta’ mixture.

5. Layer and Bake:

   • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
   • Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes in the dish.
   • Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
   • If desired, sprinkle dairy-free vegan cheese on top.

6. Bake:

   • Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until the cannelloni are tender and the sauce is bubbly.

7. Serve:

   • Allow the cannelloni to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Spinach ‘Ricotta’ Cannelloni is a delightful dish that combines the richness of Italian flavors with a vegan twist. It’s perfect for both casual family dinners and formal gatherings, and the preparation time is approximately 60-70 minutes in total. Enjoy!