SPINACH MANICOTTI

Spinach Manicotti image

Number Of Ingredients 9

10 manicotti shells
2 (10-ounce) packages frozen leaf spinach, chopped or 2 bunches (approximately 1 pound each) fresh
1 (16-ounce) carton cottage cheese, low-fat, drained or 1 16-ounce carton ricotta cheese
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, ground
Freshly ground, pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon olive oil, extra-virgin
4 cups spaghetti sauce without meat (preferably homemade)
1/4 cup parsley, chopped, fresh

Steps:

I've found the easiest way to stuff the shells is to use a pastry bag with a wide tip. If you don't have a pastry bag, slit one side of each shell with a sharp knife, open it, and fill. Place the cut side down in the baking dish and no one will be the wiser! If you use a spaghetti sauce from a jar, look for one with no added sugar.1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF2. Cook manicotti shells according to package directions, omitting salt drain and set aside.3. Cook spinach according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain, place on paper towels, and squeeze until barely moist. Or wash fresh spinach, remove stems, and shred across leaf. Steam for 5 minutes and drain thoroughly.4. Combine spinach, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and pepper. Stuff manicotti shells with spinach mixture and arrange in a 13- by 9-inch baking dish wiped with olive oil.5. Pour spaghetti sauce over manicotti. Bake for 45 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley.Food exchanges per serving: 2 Bread, 1½ medium-fat Meat, 3 Vegetable

Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves