Mediterranean-Style Baked Cannelloni
This Mediterranean-style baked cannelloni is a rich and flavorful dish that combines creamy ricotta filling with sun-dried tomatoes spinach and Mediterranean herbs all wrapped in tender pasta tubes and baked in a vibrant tomato sauce. The dish is then topped with feta cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy dinner or a special gathering.
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach finely chopped
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients:
12 cannelloni tubes (uncooked)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese for topping
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the filling In a bowl mix ricotta feta spinach sun-dried tomatoes egg oregano thyme salt and pepper. Set aside.
Make the sauce Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté garlic for a minute then add crushed tomatoes basil oregano red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Stuff the cannelloni Fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
Assemble the dish Spread half of the tomato sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in a single layer then cover with the remaining sauce.
Add cheese Sprinkle mozzarella and feta cheese on top.
Bake Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy warm.
Tips
Use a piping bag to easily fill the cannelloni tubes.
Add chopped olives or roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavors.
For a creamier texture mix some béchamel sauce with the ricotta filling.
Q&A
Q: Can I use no-boil cannelloni?
A: Yes but ensure there is enough sauce to cook them properly in the oven.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Yes Assemble everything and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes Use gluten-free pasta tubes.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean-style baked cannelloni is a delicious twist on a classic dish combining creamy filling with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. It’s easy to make satisfying and perfect for a family meal. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your home!