Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells 🍝🌿✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for vegetarian pasta recipes that are both nutritious and full of flavor, look no further than this delicious spinach stuffed shells recipe. This ricotta pasta dish combines tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, baked to perfection for a hearty yet healthy veggie dinner. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with an elegant vegetarian option, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
2. Ingredients for Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta Shells
- 20 large 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 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional for serving)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spinach Stuffed Shells
Preparing the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Making the Spinach and Ricotta Filling
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Stuffing the Pasta Shells
Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each cooked shell generously with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
Baking the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, pour marinara sauce over the shells for extra flavor. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly. For a golden top, uncover during the last 5 minutes.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Spinach Stuffed Shells
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated thoroughly. Freezing is also an option; wrap in plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick, delicious healthy veggie dinner.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Vegetarian Pasta
This vegetarian pasta recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil on top before serving. A side of garlic bread enhances the meal, making it a complete and satisfying ricotta pasta dish.
6. FAQs About Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegan ricotta and shredded vegan cheese substitutes, and replace the egg (if used) with ground flaxseed or vegan egg replacer. Check our vegan cheese options for excellent flavors.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the stuffed shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner time much easier and quicker.
How long does it take to make this healthy veggie dinner?
The total prep and cook time is approximately 40-45 minutes, perfect for a quick yet satisfying vegetarian pasta recipe.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to incorporate chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the filling for more nutrient variety and flavor.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Makes chopping spinach and garlic a breeze, saving you time and effort.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Provides reliable cookware for boiling pasta quickly and evenly.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect if you wish to prep this dish ahead and keep it warm.
Investing in quality kitchen tools can greatly enhance your cooking experience and help you prepare this healthy veggie dinner with ease and precision.
8. Conclusion
There you have it — a vegetarian pasta recipe that combines wholesome ingredients into a delightful spinach stuffed shells dish. Easy to prepare, loaded with nutritious vegetables, and adaptable to your dietary preferences, this ricotta pasta dish is a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy veggie dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting, veggie-packed meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing!
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Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
These stuffed pasta shells are filled with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, baked to perfection with cheesy goodness, making a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 20 large jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, add spinach and cook until wilted, then let cool.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, cooked spinach, eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Best served hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
- You can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Filling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 dish (about 5 shells)
- Calories: 430 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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