Cannelloni is a cylindrical pasta that is usually stuffed with meat or vegetables and then baked in the oven with a tomato-based sauce. In this recipe, the is stuffed with a mixture of artichokes, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The filling is then covered with a creamy béchamel sauce that creates a delicious contrast between the smooth sauce and the textured filling.
To make the filling, you will need canned or frozen artichokes, Ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Start by draining the artichokes and chopping them into small pieces. In a large bowl, mix the artichokes with the Ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as fresh herbs or diced sun-dried tomatoes, to enhance the flavor.
Next, you will need to stuff the cannelloni tubes with the artichoke mixture. This can be a bit tricky, as the tubes are delicate and can break if handled roughly. To make the job easier, you can use a pastry bag or a small spoon to insert the filling into the tubes. Make sure to stuff the tubes tightly, as the filling will expand a bit as it bakes.
Once you have filled all the cannelloni tubes, you can prepare the béchamel sauce. This sauce is made by combining butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan and cooking over low heat until the sauce thickens. You can also add a pinch of grated nutmeg to the sauce for extra flavor.
To assemble the dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, and then arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes in a single layer. Cover the tubes with the béchamel sauce, making sure to spread it evenly over the pasta. Finally, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
Bake the cannelloni in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbling. The dish is best served hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley.
Cannelloni with artichokes is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary requirements. If you want to make the dish vegetarian or vegan, you can omit the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based milk for the béchamel sauce. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers.
In conclusion, cannelloni with artichokes is a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy filling and rich sauce makes for a comforting meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a tasty weekday dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.