Kale-Artichoke Stuffed Shells
Kale-Artichoke Stuffed Shells is a delicious vegetarian dish combining pasta shells filled with a hearty mixture of sautéed kale, artichokes, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella, all baked in marinara sauce. The hearty filling is both nutritious and satisfying, providing an excellent alternative to meat-heavy dishes.
Ingredients:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Calories:
Approximately 300–350 calories per serving (1 shell).
How to Cook:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add kale and artichokes, cooking for another 5–7 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sautéed kale-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the mixture, then arrange them in a baking dish with marinara sauce.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
History:
Stuffed pasta shells are a classic Italian-American dish, though the specific combination of kale and artichokes adds a modern twist. Kale, once considered a humble green, has grown in popularity due to its nutritional value. Artichokes have been consumed since ancient times, especially in Mediterranean regions. The combination of these ingredients reflects modern culinary trends emphasizing health-conscious and plant-based meals.
