Vegetable Cannelloni - Vegan

Vegetable Cannelloni – Delicious Lent Recipe

Vegetable cannelloni is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that is also easy to prepare. This recipe is ideal not only for fasting days but also for any occasion when you want to bring a colorful and nutrient-rich meal to the table. Let's discover together how we can transform simple ingredients into a true delicacy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 8 cannelloni tubes
- 100 g fresh (or frozen) mushrooms
- 100 g broccoli
- 200 g frozen vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell pepper)
- 100 g vegan cheese (or a plant-based substitute)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred oil)
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs

Recipe history:

Cannelloni is a type of pasta originating from Italy, which has evolved over time into various regional variations. This recipe draws inspiration from the tradition of filling pasta with various fillings, paying homage to fresh and healthy vegetables. This dish reflects not only the culinary richness of vegetables but also the desire to enjoy simple yet flavorful meals.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the pasta:

Start by placing a pot with 1 liter of water and a pinch of salt over medium heat. When the water reaches a boiling point, add the cannelloni tubes. Boil them for 2-3 minutes. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once boiled, carefully remove them, ensuring they do not break, and quickly rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Arrange them on a platter, being careful not to stick together.

2. Preparing the filling:

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and frozen vegetables. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant.

Meanwhile, prepare the broccoli. Break it into small florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes in salted water, then drain well. Add the broccoli to the pan and mix everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the cannelloni:

Fill each cannelloni tube with the vegetable mixture using a spoon or a small filling device. Carefully place them in a greased baking dish lined with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.

4. Gratinating:

Grate the vegan cheese over the filled cannelloni. If you want to keep the recipe vegan, you can skip the cheese and sprinkle an extra layer of breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes until beautifully gratinated.

5. Serving:

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Vegetable cannelloni can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a side of tomato sauce.

Useful tips:

- Ingredients: You can experiment with the vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower are excellent for the filling.
- Vegan option: Replace the cheese with vegan cheese or a mixture of ground nuts with nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor.
- For extra flavor: Add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling.
- Pasta maintenance: If you don't have cannelloni tubes, you can use lasagna sheets, which you can fill and roll, achieving a similar result.

Nutritional benefits:

This vegetable cannelloni recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Broccoli, for example, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while mushrooms provide protein and B vitamins. The entire recipe is low in calories, making it perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use lasagna sheets or even short pasta like penne, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add chili flakes or chili sauce to the filling for a spicier taste.

3. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! The vegetables can be adapted to the little ones' preferences, and the dish has an attractive presentation.

4. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Certainly! You can assemble the cannelloni a day ahead and then bake them just before serving.

5. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a sparkling mineral water with lemon are excellent choices to complement the meal.

In conclusion, vegetable cannelloni is a versatile recipe that can be customized according to your preferences. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or as a light meal during the week, this dish will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Remember, cooking is an art, and quality ingredients and a passion for food are the keys to a delicious result! Enjoy your meal!