How to Make Italian-Style Seafood Cannelloni

If you're looking to elevate your dinner experience with a delicious Italian dish, look no further than Italian-style seafood cannelloni. This delightful pasta dish is filled with seasonal seafood, creamy ricotta cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will impress any guest. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

To prepare Italian-style seafood cannelloni, gather the following ingredients:

  • 12-15 cannelloni tubes
  • 300g of fresh ricotta cheese
  • 200g of cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 200g of calamari, cleaned and cut into rings
  • 150g of mussels, cleaned and shelled
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 400g of crushed tomatoes
  • 100g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and allow the sauce to simmer for 15 minutes. This will create a rich base for your cannelloni.

Step 2: Cook the Seafood Filling

In another skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the calamari and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the chopped shrimp and mussels, cooking until just tender. Make sure not to overcook the seafood, as it can become rubbery. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before mixing with the ricotta cheese. Combine the seafood mixture with the ricotta and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the Cannelloni

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Using a piping bag or a spoon, stuff the cannelloni tubes with the seafood and ricotta mixture. Place the filled cannelloni in a greased baking dish, side by side.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed cannelloni. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a delicious cheesy crust when baked. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the cannelloni in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and crisp up. The cannelloni should be heated through and bubbly when finished.

Serving Suggestions

Once out of the oven, let your Italian-style seafood cannelloni sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch and serve with a side of garlic bread and a mixed green salad for a complete meal.

Italian-style seafood cannelloni is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful dish that showcases the essence of Italian cuisine. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious meal with family and friends!