Name: Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a Nutritious Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 large pasta shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce

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Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a Nutritious Dinner 🌱🧀🍝

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a healthy veggie dinner that combines richness with nutritious ingredients, look no further than this spinach ricotta stuffed shells recipe. This hearty dish makes for an excellent stuffed pasta shells meal, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with a flavorful vegetarian option. Incorporating fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a casual cook, these spinach ricotta stuffed shells are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe arsenal.

2. Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Stuffed 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 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Spinach Ricotta Recipe

Preparing the Pasta and Filling

Cook the large pasta shells in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Making the Spinach and Ricotta Mixture

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, cooked spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuffing the Shells

Carefully spoon the cheese and spinach mixture into each cooked shell, filling generously.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and hot.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the shells for up to 2 months, wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and foil.

5. Serving Suggestions for Nutritious Dinner

Serve these spinach ricotta stuffed shells with a mixed green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a perfectly balanced healthy veggie dinner. Pair it with some crusty artisan bread, and consider a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water for a complete meal experience. For a complete nutrition boost, add roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain excess water thoroughly before adding it to the cheese mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Absolutely! This healthy veggie dinner is vegetarian-friendly and rich in plant-based ingredients.

How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?

The total time from start to finish, including cooking and baking, is approximately 45 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the shells in advance, cover, and store in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Elevate your cooking experience with these must-have tools:

Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Make chopping and preparing fresh spinach effortless, saving time and effort.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Perfect for preparing chilled beverages to complement your dinner.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Ideal if you want to prep sauces or cook in advance for a fuss-free experience.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures non-stick, even heating, making cooking and cleanup easier.

8. Additional recipes to try for a balanced menu

If you enjoyed this nutritious spinach ricotta recipe, explore other delicious options such as:

9. Conclusion

Incorporating nutritious ingredients like spinach and ricotta cheese, this spinach ricotta stuffed shells recipe offers a wholesome and delicious choice for a healthy veggie dinner. Easy to prepare and versatile, it can be enjoyed on weeknights or special occasions. Next time you’re craving comfort food with a nutritional twist, give this stuffed pasta shells dish a try — your family and taste buds will thank you! For more kitchen inspiration, don’t forget to browse our collection of helpful kitchen tools listed above.

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner