Cannelloni with ricotta, pesto sauce and ramsons

Cannelloni with ricotta, pesto sauce, and wild garlic

A simple and delicious recipe, cannelloni with ricotta, pesto sauce, and wild garlic combines fresh flavors and creamy textures, transforming a classic dish into an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests, and each bite will remind you of blooming spring. Let's start our culinary adventure!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 1 box of cannelloni (approximately 250 g)
- 500 g ricotta or cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce (choose a quality pesto for an intense flavor)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- A bunch of fresh wild garlic (if you don’t have it on hand, you can use spinach)
- Salt, to taste

For the sauce:
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 600-700 ml milk (use whole milk for a creamier consistency)
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g grated mozzarella
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly grated nutmeg, for extra flavor

Step by step: Preparing the Cannelloni

1. Preparing the filling

Start by mashing the ricotta with a fork, turning it into a smooth mixture. This is the delicious base of the filling. Add the pesto sauce, egg, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients well to obtain a creamy composition.

Tip: Ricotta is a low-fat cheese rich in protein and calcium, and pesto adds a delicious herbaceous note that perfectly complements the ricotta. If you want a richer filling, you can also add a bit of crumbled feta cheese.

2. Adding the wild garlic

Wash the wild garlic well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Finely chop it and add it to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently to avoid crushing it. Wild garlic brings a subtle garlic flavor that will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

3. Filling the cannelloni

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta mixture. Carefully place them in a greased baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Preparing the sauce

In a pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce. Gradually add the warm milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Add the grated cheese and mozzarella, stirring until the cheeses melt. Season with salt and add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for extra flavor.

5. Baking

Pour the sauce evenly over the cannelloni, making sure they are well covered. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cannelloni are cooked and the sauce is slightly browned.

Serving

After removing from the oven, let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle some fresh wild garlic or basil on top for a more appealing look.

Customized version

If you want to experiment, you can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as grated zucchini or carrot. Additionally, instead of pesto sauce, try an olive paste or tomato sauce for a slightly different variation.

Nutritional information

This recipe for cannelloni with ricotta and wild garlic is a healthy option, rich in protein and calcium due to the cheese. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with a balanced content of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta to vary the flavor of the filling.

- How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the filling mixture for an extra kick.

- Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cannelloni and sauce a few hours ahead and put them in the oven when you are ready to serve the meal.

This recipe for cannelloni with ricotta, pesto sauce, and wild garlic is not just a delicious meal, but also an opportunity to experiment with fresh and healthy ingredients. Enjoy every bite and let your imagination soar in the kitchen! Bon appétit!