Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Shells Delight 🥗🧀🍝
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a vegetarian pasta recipe that combines creamy ricotta with vibrant spinach, then this spinach ricotta stuffed shells dish is perfect for you. Not only is it a healthy veggie dinner option, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. This easy vegetarian pasta recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that your family will love.
2. Ingredients for Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Shells
- 20 large jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for This Vegetarian Pasta Recipe
Preparing the Pasta Shells
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Making the Spinach and Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuffing the Pasta Shells
Gently spoon the spinach and ricotta mixture into each cooked shell, taking care not to tear the pasta. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
Baking the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and heated through.
4. Tips for Success and Variations
For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or fresh basil on top before baking. You can also substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for different greens. To make it vegan, replace ricotta with tofu crumbled with nutritional yeast, and use vegan cheese.
5. Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This healthy veggie dinner maintains its flavor beautifully upon reheating.
6. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Vegetarian Meal
Serve your vibrant spinach and tomato pasta alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. Pairing with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon can elevate the dining experience. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a side of bruschetta.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vegetarian Pasta Recipes
Can I freeze spinach and ricotta stuffed shells?
Yes, assemble the dish, freeze uncovered until firm, then wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) covered with foil for about 40-45 minutes.
What are good substitutions for ricotta cheese?
For a dairy-free or vegan option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast or vegan ricotta alternatives available at most health food stores.
How long does it take to prepare this vegetarian pasta recipe?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 50 minutes, making it a great easy vegetarian pasta meal for busy weeknights.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even cooking and easy clean-up for your pasta and sautéing needs, making your cooking experience smoother.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Simplifies chopping and preparing fresh greens like spinach for this dish.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Ideal for meal prepping or making sauce ahead of time to save cooking steps.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — Add crispy garlic bread or roasted vegetables as a perfect side for your pasta.
9. Conclusion
Enjoying a vegetarian pasta recipe like this healthy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells is both delicious and nutritious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this easy vegetarian pasta dish is a wonderful way to introduce more greens into your diet while satisfying your pasta cravings. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and explore your culinary creativity with variations and side dishes!
Print
Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Shells Delight
A hearty, nutritious pasta dish featuring large shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese and sautéed spinach, baked to perfection and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed spinach, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stuff cooked shells with the ricotta mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the stuffed shells a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shell
- Calories: 330 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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