Zucchini Cannelloni
Tender zucchini slices wrapped around a savory filling, smothered in rich tomato sauce, and baked to perfection. That’s right, we’re talking about Zucchini Cannelloni – a deliciously wholesome dish that’s perfect for those craving Italian comfort food without the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Serving Size: Serves 4
Cook Time Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
Let’s Get Cooking:
1. Prep the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline, thinly slice the zucchinis lengthwise, creating long, thin strips. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked onion, garlic, and spinach mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Cannelloni:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Take one zucchini slice and place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end. Roll the zucchini slice up to enclose the filling, creating a cannelloni shape. Place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices and filling.
4. Bake the Cannelloni:
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the assembled cannelloni.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the foil from the baking dish and let the cannelloni cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this healthier twist on classic Italian cannelloni!
Why You’ll Love Zucchini Cannelloni:
- Healthy Alternative: By using zucchini instead of traditional pasta, you’re cutting down on carbs and calories while still enjoying a hearty meal.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of creamy ricotta filling and tangy tomato sauce creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or ground turkey for a protein boost.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish! It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing taste.
In Conclusion:
Zucchini Cannelloni with Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that’s both nutritious and delicious. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So why not give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills? It’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household!
