Spinach and Ricotta-filled Cannelloni with Tomato Sauce

The "Cannelloni di Spinaci e Ricotta" (Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni) is a classic Italian dish that embodies the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. These large pasta tubes, filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, are then bathed in a rich tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. This iconic dish is a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, particularly in regions like Tuscany, where fresh ingredients and simple, yet elegant preparations are celebrated.

Ingredients

For The Fresh Cannelloni Pasta

• All-purpose flour 200 grams
• Egg 2
• Salt 1 pinch

Filling for Cannelloni

• Spinach 400 grams
• Garlic Cloves 3
• Ricotta cheese (Sheep's Milk) 300 grams
• Salt and Pepper as needed
• Nutmeg as needed
• Extra-virgin olive oil as needed

Tomato Sauce for Cannelloni

• Garlic Cloves 2
• Extra-virgin olive oil 2 table-spoon
• Canned tomato 400 grams
• Parmesan cheese (Grated) 100 grams
• Basil (Leaves) 3
• Salt and Pepper as needed

Preparation

Prepare the Filling

Coat the bottom of a large sautéing pan with olive oil and 3 cloves of garlic that has been crushed and left with the peel on. 
Heat until relatively hot but not emitting smoke.  Add spinach, and adjust to taste with salt.  Allow to cook for approximately 5 minutes, until cooked through and tender. 
Remove from heat, place on top of paper towels to cool off and release excess liquids.  Once cooled, squeeze spinach in another paper towel to absorb as much excess liquids as possible. 
Once spinach has cooled off, chop coarsely in large pieces, and add in as much ricotta as you wish, using up to 400g in total.   Season mixture to taste with salt, freshly ground black pepper and nutmeg. 

Prepare the pasta dough

Sift the flour on the wooden board and hollow the center.  Break the eggs and pour them in the hollow one by one.  
Using a fork, beat the eggs together. Gently bring some of the flour into the egg mix. Continue drawing flour into the eggs a little at a the time until all the flour is absorbed.
Use your hands to obtain a uniform mixture, knead the pasta, pushing with the palm of your hands, until the dough feels smooth and firm. 
Make a round, smooth ball and place it on a plate.  Cover with a moistened cloth or a plastic wrap, and let the dough settle in a fresh place for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Use the minimum flour necessary, just enough to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands while working.  
Cut the dough in rectangles. Boil the pieces of pasta in salted boiling water for a few minutes, adding a few drops of olive oil to avoid having the pasta stick together.  
Place the pasta sheet out flat, place spinach filling into the middle (not too much otherwise the filling will escape from the rolled pasta). 
Roll the pasta up, to have the filling in the middle, and seal the edges of the pasta by slightly dampening the pasta on one side. 
Repeat until you have filled and rolled all of the rectangular pieces of pasta.   
Place all of the rolls into a deep baking dish, and proceed as indicated below.

Cook the sauce

Crush the peeled tomatoes with your hands or a fork, and put in a pan with the garlic, the basil and salt.
Let it simmer gently until thickened. Turn off the fire, add the extra virgin olive oil to taste.

Cook Cannelloni and Complete Dish

Cover the filled cannelloni with tomato sauce and a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.  Place in preheated  oven (200C), and allow to cook for about 10 minutes, to form a crunchy top on the pasta, and to lightly melt the cheese.

Conclusion

Preparing Cannelloni di Spinaci e Ricotta is a rewarding culinary experience that allows you to connect with the heart of Italian and Tuscan culture. If you're eager to learn more about this and other traditional Italian dishes, consider joining a cooking class or tour with MaMa Florence. Our experienced chefs will guide you through the art of Italian cuisine, sharing their knowledge of regional specialties, fresh produce, and time-honored techniques. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, MaMa Florence offers a unique and enriching culinary journey that will deepen your appreciation for the vibrant flavors and traditions of Italy.