Healthy Spinach Ricotta Shells: An Irresistibly Delicious & Nutritious Vegetarian Pasta Feast 🍝🌱✨

Name: Healthy Spinach Ricotta Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 large pasta shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste

1. Introduction

If you’re seeking a delightful vegetarian pasta recipe that combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, look no further than these spinach ricotta stuffed shells. Perfect for a cozy veggie dinner, this dish is not only wholesome but also bursting with flavor. Its luscious stuffing and hearty shell pasta make it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or meal prep. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to include more greens in your diet while satisfying your pasta cravings. Let’s explore how to create this tasty, healthy pasta dish step by step!

2. Ingredients Needed for Healthy Spinach Ricotta Shells

20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1.5 cups ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 egg (optional, for extra binding)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Delicious Vegetarian Pasta

Preparing the Pasta Shells

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

Making the Spinach Ricotta Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella (reserve some for topping), cooked spinach, and the egg if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuffing the Shells

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooked shell with the spinach ricotta mixture. Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish.

Assembling and Baking

Spread marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Healthy Pasta

Allow the spinach ricotta shells to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through for a quick, satisfying meal.

5. Serving Suggestions for Vegetarian Pasta

This vegetarian pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, such as a mixed greens and cherry tomato salad, or with crusty bread. For an added nutritious boost, serve with a side of roasted veggies or sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top. If you’re craving a bit more flair, consider adding a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

6. Benefits of Making This Healthy Pasta

This healthier pasta option is packed with greens, protein from ricotta, and wholesome ingredients that support your wellbeing. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food while maintaining a balanced diet. Plus, the baked shells offer a satisfying texture that everyone will love!

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these vegetarian pasta shells vegan?

Yes! Replace ricotta with vegan ricotta made from cashews or tofu, and use plant-based mozzarella. Also, swap eggs for a flaxseed or chia seed substitute to bind the filling.

What are some substitutions for the ingredients?

You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard. For cheese, Parmesan can be replaced with nutritional yeast or omitted for a dairy-free version. Use any tomato-based sauce you prefer!

How long does it take to prepare this veggie dinner?

The entire process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy weeknight healthy pasta option.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To improve your cooking experience with this dish, consider using quality tools. For example, the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is perfect for quick reheating or roasting leftovers, while the T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your pasta and vegetables cook evenly. A good Pasta Maker can also make preparing fresh pasta more enjoyable, and the Breville Espresso Maker is ideal if you’d like to serve an aromatic coffee alongside your meal.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a delicious vegetarian pasta that’s both nutritious and satisfying has never been easier with this spinach ricotta stuffed shells recipe. Whether serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this healthy pasta dish hits all the right notes. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless customization options, you can create a veggie dinner that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Healthy Spinach Ricotta Shells