Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Lemon Zest

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🍋 Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Lemon Zest

📖 Description

Tender jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and nutty Parmesan, finished with fresh lemon zest for a light, zesty lift. Baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melty cheese, this dish is comforting yet fresh—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Filling

  • 1½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
  • 1½ cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
    (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed & squeezed dry)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (freshly grated)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional but lovely)

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 20–22 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or quality store-bought)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For Garnish (Optional)

  • Extra lemon zest
  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

  • Boil jumbo shells in salted water until just al dente.
  • Drain and place on a tray to cool slightly.

2️⃣ Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix:

  • Ricotta
  • Spinach
  • Parmesan
  • Egg
  • Lemon zest
  • Garlic
  • Salt, pepper, and nutmeg
    Mix until creamy and well combined.

3️⃣ Assemble

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in a baking dish.
  • Stuff each shell generously with ricotta mixture.
  • Arrange shells seam-side up.
  • Spoon remaining sauce over shells.
  • Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top.

4️⃣ Bake

  • Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

5️⃣ Serve

  • Rest 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with herbs, lemon zest, and Parmesan.

🌟 Tips for Best Results

  • Squeeze spinach VERY well to avoid watery filling.
  • Lemon zest should be finely grated—no white pith.
  • For extra richness, add 2 tbsp cream to the filling.
  • Want heat? Add a pinch of red chili flakes.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic bread
  • Simple arugula salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Lemon vinaigrette side salad🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx.)
  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbs: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g

💚 Benefits

  • High in calcium & protein
  • Spinach adds iron and antioxidants
  • Lemon zest aids digestion and adds freshness
  • Vegetarian-friendly comfort food

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
A: Absolutely—freeze unbaked up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, blend it smooth first for best texture.

 

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