Cannelloni with spinach and cheese

Cannelloni with spinach and cheese - a recipe that combines culinary tradition with the fresh flavor of simple yet elegant ingredients. Even if it's hot outside, cooking these delicious cannelloni is worth every effort, as the result will pamper you with a comforting and flavorful meal. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a family dinner or to impress friends at a party.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the cannelloni:
- 10 cannelloni
- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen if unavailable)
- 2 green onions
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 300 g crumbled sheep cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh chopped dill

For the béchamel sauce:
- 50 g butter
- 500 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional but recommended)

For the topping:
- 150 g grated cheese (to add a delicious crust)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by washing the spinach leaves well under cold running water. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and well-drained. Boil the spinach in a pot of salted water for 3-4 minutes until it softens. Drain and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely. This step releases the aroma and texture of the spinach, giving it an intense flavor.

2. Sautéing the onion and garlic: Peel and finely chop the green onion and garlic. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. These aromas will provide a wonderful background for your filling.

3. Mixing the filling: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until all the water evaporates. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh chopped dill. Once the mixture is homogeneous, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, incorporate the sour cream and crumbled sheep cheese. Mix well until you obtain a uniform and delicious composition.

4. Preparing the béchamel sauce: In another pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and quickly whisk to avoid lumps. This is the base of your sauce. At first, it will seem like a paste, but don't worry! Gradually add the milk while continuously stirring. Continue to mix until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a little nutmeg. Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic note, perfect for a creamy sauce.

5. Filling the cannelloni: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each cannelloni with the spinach and cheese filling. Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then arrange the filled cannelloni. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with grated cheese for a golden and crispy crust.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is nicely browned. This baking time allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

7. Serving: Once the cannelloni are ready, let them cool slightly before slicing. Serve them warm, possibly with a fresh salad on the side. These cannelloni with spinach and cheese are perfect to enjoy with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as sautéed mushrooms or even a bit of tomato sauce for a more complex flavor.
- For a perfect béchamel sauce: Make sure the milk is warm when you add it to the flour and butter mixture; this step will help prevent lumps from forming.
- For an easier dish: If time allows, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. The next day, all you have to do is fill the cannelloni and bake them.

Nutritional Benefits

Cannelloni with spinach and cheese are not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Sheep cheese provides quality protein, while the béchamel sauce, although rich in calories, adds a creamy texture that makes the dish more satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta for the cannelloni? Yes, whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients, making the dish even healthier.
- What can I use instead of sheep cheese? Feta or ricotta cheese are excellent alternatives that pair well with spinach.
- Can I freeze the cannelloni? Yes, you can freeze the filled cannelloni before baking them. Make sure to portion them out and wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking. These cannelloni with spinach and cheese are an excellent choice for any occasion, and their aroma will surely win you over! Enjoy your meal!