Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner

Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Veggie Dinner 🍝🌱✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite veggie dinner! Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food, but this version elevates the dish with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese, making it a truly healthy and delicious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines hearty pasta with nutritious greens and a flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this stuffed shells dish is to prepare. Let’s dive into this tasty healthy recipe that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!

2. Ingredients for Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• 20 large pasta shells
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Olive oil for cooking

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Preparing the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Making the Spinach and Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Stuffing the Shells

Using a teaspoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooked shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Adding the Sauce and Cheese

Spoon marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish.

Baking the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Healthy Stuffed Shells

Let the dish cool completely before transferring leftover stuffed shells to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the shells for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Veggie Dinner

Serve these stuffed shells with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette pairs perfectly with this hearty pasta dish. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.

6. FAQ: Your Questions About Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Answered

Can I substitute ricotta with cottage cheese?

Yes, for a lower-fat option, you can substitute ricotta cheese with blended cottage cheese. It provides a similar texture and maintains the creamy consistency.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutritious vegetables and dairy. To make it vegan, substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegan marinara sauce.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Including boiling pasta, preparing the filling, stuffing, and baking, this healthy stuffed shells recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping spinach and garlic easier and quicker, ensuring your healthy veggie dinner preparation is stress-free.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – A durable, nonstick set that helps you prepare and bake the stuffed shells without hassle.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect for making ahead or keeping warm leftovers for serving later.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Convenient for mixing and preparing creamy fillings effortlessly.

Investing in the right kitchen tools will enhance your cooking experience, making this pasta dish even easier and more enjoyable to prepare.

8. Final Tips for the Perfect Healthy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

To keep your dish extra nutritious, use fresh, organic spinach and high-quality cheese. Customize the recipe by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more veggie variety. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before baking for maximum flavor. Enjoy a wholesome dinner that everyone will love!

9. Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making healthy stuffed shells filled with spinach and ricotta cheese. This veggie dinner is easy to prepare, nutritious, and incredibly tasty. Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish proves that comfort food can also be good for you. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nourishing meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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