Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a delicious low-carb Italian dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the fresh flavors of spinach, all wrapped in tender, zucchini-based cannelloni. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner while keeping your carb intake in check.

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
45 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Italian
350 kcal

Ingredients

  • Zucchini - 2 medium
  • Ricotta cheese - 250 grams
  • Fresh spinach - 150 grams
  • Parmesan cheese - 50 grams, grated
  • Egg - 1 large
  • Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Salt - 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Nutmeg - a pinch
  • Tomato sauce - 200 grams (low-carb)

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or a sharp knife to create the 'cannelloni' sheets.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, sautéed spinach, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
  6. Lay the zucchini strips flat and place a spoonful of the ricotta-spinach mixture at one end of each strip. Roll them up tightly to form cannelloni.
  7. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the zucchini cannelloni seam-side down in the dish.
  8. Top the cannelloni with the remaining tomato sauce, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your low-carb Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Carbs: 10 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins A and C from spinach, supporting eye health and immune function.
  • High in protein and calcium from ricotta and Parmesan, promoting muscle health and bone strength.

Tags

ItalianLow CarbMain Dish