Vegetarian Cannelloni Pasta Recipe Easy and Delicious

If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious vegetarian pasta dish, look no further than this Vegetarian Cannelloni Pasta Recipe. Bursting with fresh vegetables, creamy ricotta, and a rich tomato sauce, this meal is a fantastic way to enjoy Italian flavors without any meat.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings with every bite.

This homemade cannelloni recipe is surprisingly simple to make, yet elegant enough to impress at dinner parties. By stuffing tender pasta tubes with a vibrant mix of spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta cheese, then baking them under a blanket of flavorful marinara and melted mozzarella, you create a dish that’s both hearty and wholesome.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into your meal!

Ready to craft this delightful vegetarian feast? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why this cannelloni will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian cannelloni recipe is a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and ease. Here’s why:

• Rich and Creamy Filling: The combination of ricotta, spinach, and mushrooms creates a luscious stuffing that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
• Comfort Food Classic: Baked pasta drenched in tomato sauce and cheese is a timeless crowd-pleaser that warms the soul.
• Vegetable-Packed: Loaded with fresh produce, this dish provides a nutritious punch while keeping the calories in check.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite veggies or vegan cheese alternatives.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready for a convenient meal solution.

Ingredients

• 12 cannelloni pasta tubes (dried or fresh)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or plant-based ricotta for vegan option)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
• Spoon and spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Colander or strainer

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready by the time you assemble the dish.
2. Cook the cannelloni tubes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cannelloni according to package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes, until just al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and spinach: Stir in the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
6. Stuff the cannelloni tubes: Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each pasta tube with the vegetable and cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta.
7. Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes side by side in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top.
8. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella over the sauce for a golden, bubbly crust.
9. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
10. Garnish and serve: Let the cannelloni cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t overcook the cannelloni pasta tubes—al dente is key to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.”

For a vegan twist, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheeses or homemade cashew cheese. You can swap mushrooms and spinach for other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to suit your taste.

If you want to elevate the sauce, try making your own Vegan Bechamel Sauce for a creamy layer beneath the marinara.

To save time, prepare the filling and stuff the pasta the day before, then cover and refrigerate. Assemble and bake when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Keep in mind these values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian cannelloni pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or steamed green beans.

For a fresh twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the top or sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added umami.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out these delicious recipes:

• Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals
• Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
• Best Italian Vegetarian Recipes for Delicious Meatless

Conclusion

Vegetarian cannelloni is a wonderful dish that brings together the best of Italian comfort food while keeping it fresh and packed with vegetables. This recipe is both easy to prepare and flexible, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The creamy ricotta and spinach filling combined with savory mushrooms and tangy marinara sauce create a harmonious burst of flavors that everyone will love.

Beyond just being a tasty meal, it’s a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based dishes into your routine without sacrificing the hearty satisfaction of pasta. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or explore the many variations, this vegetarian cannelloni will become a beloved recipe in your cooking repertoire.

Don’t forget to explore other delightful vegetarian dishes like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe or the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker for more flavorful healthy meals.

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