Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Recipe Introduction: Get Ready to Stuff Some Shells!
Craving something comforting and delicious? Have you ever thought of how good spinach dinner recipes can be? Honestly, this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is about to become your new fave! It is proper tasty, I promise.
Spinach Dinner Recipes : Not Just for Popeye
This dish is inspired by classic Italian comfort food. It's where hearty pasta meets the goodness of spinach. This recipe is rated medium difficulty.
Prep time is about 45 minutes, and cook time around 35. The recipe yields about 6 servings.
Why This Recipe Rocks
Okay, let's talk benefits. Spinach is packed with iron and vitamins. This dish is great for a family dinner or even a special occasion.
The Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe adds a lovely depth to it. This is one of those Italian Spinach Recipes you will cook time and time again!
Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
Okay, let's whip up a batch of that would make even Mary Berry proud! Given the "spinach dinner recipes" theme and the provided recipe, here's a balanced list, drawing from the annotated and then branching out to cover all the bases.
Right, before we start, make sure you have all the bits and bobs ready. We're talking jumbo pasta shells, creamy ricotta, loads of spinach, and some gorgeous red bell peppers.
Trust me, fresh ingredients make a massive difference. It is time to get cooking! Remember we need: Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast , Healthy Low Carb Dinners , Chicken Breast Recipes Healthy , Keto Recipes Dinner , Healthy Spinach Stuffed Chicken , Spinach Ricotta Shells Recipe , Vegetarian Spinach Dinner , Stuffed Pasta Shells Vegetarian .
Now this is gonna be a blast!
Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment for Amazing Spinach Dinner Recipes!
Okay, so we're diving headfirst into Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce . Sounds posh, right? Honestly, it's easier than building Ikea furniture (and way more delicious).
Main Ingredients: The Star Performers
First things first, the shopping list. Don't worry, it's not scary. For the sauce, you'll need 2 large red bell peppers (around 1 lb / 450g ).
Look for peppers that are firm and have a deep, vibrant color. They should feel heavy for their size. 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional), a big ol' 28-ounce (794g) can of crushed tomatoes, and 1/4 cup (15g) of fresh basil.
Boom! Sauce base sorted.
Now, for the Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast part the stuffed shells. You'll need 1 (12 ounce / 340g) package of jumbo pasta shells, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, 1/2 cup (75g) chopped yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic, 10 ounces (283g) fresh spinach (make sure it's nice and green, not slimy!), 1 (15 ounce / 425g) container of whole milk ricotta cheese (go for the full fat stuff, trust me), 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg , and a dash of nutmeg.
Chicken Breast Recipes Healthy ? Maybe next time!
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life
This is where you can get a bit creative! We're using garlic, basil, and nutmeg as our core flavor squad.
They are going to make the Italian Spinach Recipes absolutely sing. But don't be afraid to experiment. A little pinch of dried oregano or thyme in the sauce would be amazing.
If you don't have fresh basil, 1 teaspoon of dried basil will do in a pinch. And remember, always season with salt and pepper to taste.
You know, like your grandma taught you. For a Keto Recipes Dinner twist, maybe try almond flour instead of pasta!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You really don't need fancy gadgets for this. A baking sheet, aluminum foil (for roasting the peppers), a large pot (for the pasta), a large skillet (for the spinach filling), and a 9x13 inch baking dish.
If you don't have a baking sheet, use a large oven safe tray. No fancy garlic press? Just mince the garlic with a knife! This isn't MasterChef, it's a Healthy Low Carb Dinners that makes your mouth happy, and the goal is tasty Spinach Ricotta Shells Recipe .
No need to panic. You got this!
Now, while we're at it, have you considered adding roasted red peppers as part of your Vegetarian Spinach Dinner or Stuffed Pasta Shells Vegetarian plans? It's all about the balance of flavors.
For something different, maybe try a Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe next time.
Spinach dinner recipes can be a game changer. You know? Honestly, don't overthink it. Just get in the kitchen, put on some tunes, and have a crack at it!
Let's Get Stuffing! Spinach Dinner Recipes
Okay, let's talk Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce . Honestly, these stuffed shells are amazing. Forget bland, boring vegetarian food, this is next level comfort.
The richness of the ricotta, the slight tang of the Parmesan... and that roasted red pepper sauce? Oh my gosh! You'll love it! It is also among Healthy Low Carb Dinners .
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Pro
First things first, let's get organised. Essential mise en place is key here, people. Get those 2 large red bell peppers ready to roast.
Dice your 1/2 cup yellow onion , mince those 2 cloves of garlic , and chop up 10 ounces fresh spinach .
Everything at your fingertips! This is going to save you loads of time later. This Italian Italian Spinach Recipes is among the Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast .
Safety reminder: Be careful when you are handling the roasted red peppers. They can be very hot! Use tongs.
step-by-step: From Zero to Hero
- Roast Red Peppers: Preheat the oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Roast peppers on a baking sheet until blackened, about 20- 30 minutes . Seal in a bag to steam skin.
- Make Red Pepper Sauce: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in 2 tablespoons olive oil . Add roasted peppers and 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes . Simmer for 15 minutes , stir in basil.
- Cook Pasta: Cook 1 (12 ounce / 340g) package jumbo shells until al dente . Drain and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil .
- Prep Filling: Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil . Add spinach and cook until wilted. Drain all extra liquid. We want to make Healthy Spinach Stuffed Chicken .
- Combine Filling: Combine cooked spinach mixture with 1 (15 ounce / 425g) container ricotta cheese , 1/2 cup Parmesan , 1 large egg , 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg , salt, and pepper.
- Stuff Shells: Spoon the spinach and ricotta mixture into each shell.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread sauce in a 9x13 inch dish. Arrange stuffed shells on top. Cover with sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes .
Pro Tips: Chef's Kiss
Don't overcook the pasta shells or they will get mushy. I made that mistake once. Never again. Also, drain the spinach well to avoid a watery filling.
Try Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe. You can assemble these shells a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate before baking.
Great for dinner parties! These stuffed shells are a great version of Stuffed Pasta Shells Vegetarian and Keto Recipes Dinner .
Recipe Notes for the Best Stuffed Shells Ever!
Okay, so you're about to dive into these Spinach Ricotta Shells Recipe , right? Honestly, I get so excited making these.
But before you start, a few insider tips from yours truly. This recipe for spinach dinner recipes is about to become a firm family favorite.
I swear!
Serving Suggestions: Fancy Schmancy (or Not!)
For plating, think rustic Italian. A big, family style dish works perfectly. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan (because why not?). A few basil leaves add a pop of colour.
On the side? Garlic bread is a must have for soaking up that amazing sauce. And a simple green salad? Perfection.
Oh, and maybe a nice glass of wine. You know, for the chef!
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Refrigeration is your friend. Leftovers will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Freezing is also an option! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them well (or portion them out).
Reheating? Oven or microwave both work. If reheating from frozen, the oven is best for even heating.
Variations: Making it Your Own
Want to try some variations? Meat Lover's Version ? Brown some Italian sausage. Or, for a Vegetarian Spinach Dinner vibe, stick to the recipe! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
For seasonal swaps, try using butternut squash puree in the sauce during autumn. Seriously yum. Want to go for Healthy Low Carb Dinners ? Use smaller pasta shells and load it with vegetables!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
These shells are packed with goodness. We're talking vitamins and fiber from the spinach. Plus, protein from the ricotta. One serving has roughly 450 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 50g carbohydrates, 5g fiber, 10g sugar, and 600mg sodium.
Of course, this is just an estimate. But hey, it's a delicious way to sneak in some nutrients.
And that's it! Don't be scared to experiment. Cooking should be fun! So get in the kitchen and make some magic happen.
These Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast (ok, sorry, wrong recipe, but it works if you add chicken!) will be a smash hit.
Enjoy! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to prepare these spinach dinner recipes ahead of time? Like, can I be a domestic goddess even with a busy schedule?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. Think of it as your secret weapon for a stress free dinner party a total "Bake Off" winner without the actual tent!
My spinach always seems watery. How do I prevent soggy spinach dinner recipes and keep my stuffed shells from being a disaster?
Ah, the dreaded watery spinach! This is a common problem. The key is to really squeeze out as much moisture as possible after cooking it. I find the best way is to let it cool slightly, then wrap it in a clean tea towel and wring it out like you're trying to get the last drop out of a tube of toothpaste.
This keeps the filling nice and thick.
Can I freeze these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells? I love batch cooking so I don't have to cook every night!
Yes, you can! Assemble the stuffed shells but don't bake them. Freeze them in the baking dish, well covered, for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Just remember that sometimes the pasta can get a little softer after freezing, but it will still taste amazing!
I'm trying to eat healthier any tips for lightening up these spinach dinner recipes?
You bet! To make these shells a bit lighter, use part skim ricotta cheese. You can also add more spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and fiber without adding a ton of calories. And, if you're feeling adventurous, try swapping half of the pasta shells for zucchini ribbons instant veggie boost!
Think of it as sneaking in your "five a day," undercover style.
I don't have fresh spinach can I use frozen in this spinach dinner recipe?
Absolutely. Frozen spinach is a perfectly acceptable substitute. Just make sure to thaw it completely and, crucially, squeeze out all the excess water before adding it to the ricotta mixture. Nobody wants a soggy stuffed shell!
I'm not a huge fan of red pepper. Can I substitute the roasted red pepper sauce for something else?
Of course! If red pepper isn't your cup of tea, you could use a classic marinara sauce, a creamy tomato sauce, or even a pesto sauce for a different flavour profile. If you like a little bit of spice, perhaps a little bit of arrabiata sauce? It's your kitchen, be adventurous!
Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells With Roasted
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
