CREAMY AVOCADO MANICOTTI

Creamy Avocado Manicotti image

I am always looking for creative ways to make vegetarian dinners a little different. I grow my own basil, and avocados are a versatile favorite, so this recipe is a fantastic way to make manicotti that's a little unusual. -Jennifer Coduto, Kent, Ohio

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 1h10m

Yield 7 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 18

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) manicotti shells
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup minced fresh basil or 3 tablespoons dried basil
1/3 cup dry red wine or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
FILLING:
1 container (15 ounces) reduced-fat ricotta cheese
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and mashed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1 medium ripe avocado, sliced, optional

Steps:

Cook manicotti according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the tomatoes, basil, wine, brown sugar, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally., Drain manicotti. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, avocado, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Stuff cheese mixture into manicotti shells. Spread 1 cup sauce into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Arrange manicotti over sauce. Pour remaining sauce over top., Cover and bake at 350° for 35 minutes or until bubbly. Uncover; sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake 10-15 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. If desired, garnish with avocado slices.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 359 calories, Fat 13g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 29mg cholesterol, Sodium 625mg sodium, Carbohydrate 41g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges