Greek Stuffed Shells with Spinach Feta & Lemon Cream -

Greek Stuffed Shells with Spinach, Feta & Lemon Cream is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the flavors of Greek cuisine with Italian pasta. This comforting meal is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy lemon sauce complements the rich filling of spinach, feta, and ricotta, creating a balanced, satisfying dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe offers numerous benefits, starting with its delicious flavor profile. The combination of spinach and feta brings a fresh, tangy taste to every bite, while the lemon cream sauce adds a zesty richness that enhances the overall dish. Additionally, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens into your meal, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The use of jumbo pasta shells makes for an elegant presentation, and it’s suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Furthermore, it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, which adds to its convenience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Greek Stuffed Shells with Spinach, Feta & Lemon Cream:

For the shells:

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the lemon cream sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is hot enough to bake the stuffed shells evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the pasta shells according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. This prevents them from getting overly soft during baking.

Step 3: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped spinach, sautéing until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture, the egg, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix these ingredients together until they are smooth and well combined.

Step 5: For the lemon cream sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, then stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: To assemble, spread a thin layer of the prepared lemon cream sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take each shell and stuff it generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer within the baking dish.

Step 7: Pour the remaining lemon cream sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring that each shell is coated. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps to retain moisture and ensures thorough cooking.

Step 8: After 20 minutes, remove the foil from the dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step gilds the lily, allowing the tops of the shells to crisp up slightly.

Step 9: To finish, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with extra crumbled feta or fresh herbs before serving. This adds a pop of color and additional flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Greek stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, as it features spinach and various cheeses. It’s a great option for vegetarians looking for a hearty meal.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.

What can I serve with Greek Stuffed Shells?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Greek Stuffed Shells with Spinach, Feta & Lemon Cream presents a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed by all. This dish is not only impressive in presentation but also provides a satisfying meal that is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether making it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will surely leave everyone asking for seconds.