Are you looking for a delicious vegetarian stuffed shells recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of ricotta cheese, herbs, and tomato sauce with the comforting texture of pasta. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making vegetarian stuffed shells that are both satisfying and easy to prepare.
First, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need pasta shells, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, spinach, garlic, onions, tomatoes, basil, oregano, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Begin by boiling a pot of water and cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the filling. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic and onions in olive oil until they are translucent. Add chopped spinach and cook until it wilts. Stir in chopped tomatoes, basil, oregano, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with grated mozzarella cheese, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Add the cooked spinach and tomato mixture to the ricotta mixture and stir well to combine all the flavors.
Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain and set them aside. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now, it’s time to assemble the stuffed shells. Take a pasta shell and place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture inside. Add a few pieces of mozzarella cheese on top and place the stuffed shell in a baking dish. Repeat this process with all the pasta shells.
After all the stuffed shells are in the baking dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce over them. Sprinkle some more mozzarella cheese on top and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
This vegetarian stuffed shells recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite herbs and vegetables. Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes, to create your own unique version of this Italian classic. Happy cooking!
