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Spinach and Herb Manicotti with Lemon
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5 from 1 vote

Spinach and Herb Manicotti with Lemon

Pasta tubes are filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, lemon zest, Parmesan cheese and herbs in this special occasion dish that is sure to impress friends and family.
Prep Time40 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Additional Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 8 -12 servings
Calories: 394kcal
Author: Danelle

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 12 manicotti shells
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups chopped baby spinach
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1-2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 egg beaten
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Add the ricotta to a colander set over a bowl to drain. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Cook the pasta in 4-5 quarts of boiling water until still quite firm, about 6 minutes. Stir gently so the manicotti doesn't stick together. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a large bowl. Toss with a tablespoon or two of the olive oil.
  • In a large skillet, heat another tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted, 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a towel lined plate to drain.
  • In a large pot over medium heat, add the cream and garlic and bring to simmer. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in 2 cups of the Parmesan cheese, along with the Tabasco and allspice. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
  • Add the drained ricotta to a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, along with the spinach, egg and lemon zest.
  • Spread about 1/2 cup of sauce in the bottom of the prepared pan. Add the ricotta mixture to a pastry bag or zip-top bag and generously fill each manicotti tube. Place the filled tubes in the baking pan, then cover with the remaining sauce.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until sauce is bubbly and filling is warmed through. Before serving, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 394kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 552mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g