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Spinach and Cheese Manicotti: A Delightful Italian Classic

Introduction

Manicotti, a traditional Italian dish, is a pasta filled with delicious ingredients and baked to perfection. The term ‘manicotti’ means ‘sleeves’ in Italian, referring to the tubular shape of the pasta. One popular filling is a creamy blend of spinach and cheese, which offers a delightful contrast to the rich tomato sauce often served alongside it. Spinach and cheese manicotti is not just a comforting meal; it is also a fantastic way to incorporate leafy greens into your diet while indulging in the flavours of Italy.

Ingredients

To prepare spinach and cheese manicotti, you will require the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 manicotti pasta tubes
• Salt (for boiling)

For the Filling:

• 500g fresh spinach (or 300g frozen spinach)
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 200g mozzarella cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 700g marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Cook the Manicotti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti tubes and cook them for 6-7 minutes until they are al dente. Drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Spinach Filling: If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and cook it in a pan over medium heat until wilted. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain any excess water. Once cooled, chop the spinach finely. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Fill the Manicotti: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti tube with the spinach and cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta.

5. Assemble the Dish: Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent the manicotti from sticking. Arrange the filled manicotti in the dish, side by side. Once all the tubes are placed, cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the top.

6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Serve: Once out of the oven, let the manicotti sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Spinach and cheese manicotti is a wonderful dish that beautifully marries the comforting textures of pasta and cheese with the vibrant taste of spinach. It is perfect for family gatherings or as a hearty weeknight dinner. Not only does it satisfy the taste buds, but it also provides a nutritious boost, making it a meal that you can truly feel good about. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this delightful recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy this Italian classic and savour the layers of flavour that make it so beloved. Buon appetito!