Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream is an exquisite dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with the freshness of spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta rolls. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. The creamy roasted red pepper sauce elevates the dish, making it a standout on any table. Enjoying these pasta rolls will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of shrimp, spinach, and creamy sauce creates a rich and satisfying meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this dish is accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Option: Perfect for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling and sauce in advance, making assembly quick when you’re ready to bake.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from spinach, it’s a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything at hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Blender
- Baking dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the shrimp filling quickly while retaining flavor.
- Blender: Creates a smooth and velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta rolls.
- Baking Dish: Ensures even cooking of your stuffed pasta rolls while keeping them moist.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Rolls
- 8 –10 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
For the Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar roasted red peppers, drained
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or white wine for brightness
How to Make Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped shrimp and cook until pink—about 2–3 minutes. Then add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped herbs, and the cooled shrimp-spinach mixture. Stir until creamy and well blended.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the drained roasted red peppers and cook for about 2 minutes. Transfer this mixture to a blender along with heavy cream and grated Parmesan; blend until smooth. Return to pan, season with salt and pepper as needed, then heat gently until warm.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Lay out cooked lasagna noodles on a flat surface. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto each noodle, then gently roll them up starting from one end. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the prepared red pepper cream sauce over the assembled pasta rolls. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Afterward, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked to perfection, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired. Serve warm alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal experience.
How to Serve Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
Serving Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal presentation.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair the pasta rolls with warm garlic bread for a classic Italian touch. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Accompanied by a Green Salad
- A crisp green salad adds freshness to the meal. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Topped with Extra Parmesan
- Garnish the dish with extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This simple addition enhances both taste and presentation.
Served with Chili Flakes
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serve chili flakes on the side. Guests can sprinkle them over their rolls according to their spice preference.
Paired with Wine
- Consider serving a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. Its acidity will balance the richness of the cream sauce perfectly.
Finished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil over the dish adds color and a burst of herbal flavor. It also makes the dish visually appealing.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
To achieve the best results for your Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and spinach make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for optimal taste.
Cook pasta al dente: Ensure that lasagna noodles are cooked just right for easy rolling without tearing.
Let filling cool: Allowing the shrimp and spinach mixture to cool before combining it with ricotta prevents curdling.
Blend sauce smoothly: Mixing the roasted red peppers and cream until smooth creates a velvety texture that coats the rolls beautifully.
Cover while baking: Covering the dish with foil during baking keeps moisture in, preventing dryness while ensuring even cooking.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling and sauce before assembling. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
Complementing your main dish with delicious sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some great side dishes to pair with your pasta rolls.
Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a hearty contrast to the creamy pasta rolls.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the dish while adding crunch and freshness.
Sauteed Zucchini: Lightly sautéed zucchini offers a simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with pasta dishes.
Risotto: A creamy risotto can complement the flavors of shrimp while providing a luxurious side option.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutritious grain seasoned with herbs is an excellent source of protein that complements any Italian meal wonderfully.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make an elegant appetizer or side dish alongside your pasta rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can lead to mushy rolls. Always cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking.
- Skipping seasoning: Underseasoned filling can result in bland pasta rolls. Make sure to season your shrimp and spinach mixture well with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Not letting the filling cool: Adding hot filling to the noodles can cause them to tear. Allow the shrimp-spinach mixture to cool slightly before assembling.
- Using too much sauce: Pouring on excessive sauce can make your pasta rolls soggy. Use enough sauce to coat without drowning the dish.
- Not covering while baking: Forgetting to cover your dish with foil at the start can lead to dry pasta rolls. Covering helps retain moisture during cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.
Freezing Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to prepare the shrimp?
For optimal flavor, sauté the shrimp just until pink, ensuring they remain tender. Season well with salt and pepper.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing into your filling.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini, maintaining all other ingredients as is.
Can I prepare these pasta rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows for various customizations; try different cheeses or add herbs based on your preference. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!
Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Rolls with Roasted Red Pepper Cream. This exquisite dish features tender pasta rolls filled with succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta, all enveloped in a luscious roasted red pepper sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these pasta rolls are easy to prepare and will impress your guests with their vibrant taste and beautiful presentation. Serve them warm alongside garlic bread or a crisp salad for a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 rolls) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Shrimp
- Fresh spinach
- Ricotta cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Roasted red peppers
- Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles until al dente.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic briefly, then add chopped shrimp and spinach until cooked. Season to taste and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg, herbs, and cooled shrimp-spinach mixture until combined.
- Make the sauce by blending roasted red peppers with sautéed garlic, cream, and Parmesan until smooth; season to taste.
- Assemble pasta rolls by placing filling on each noodle and rolling them up. Place in a greased baking dish.
- Pour sauce over the rolls and bake covered for 20 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pasta roll (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
