Cannelloni with cheese and Prague ham

Cannelloni with Cheese and Prague Ham

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe Introduction

Cannelloni, a dish with deep roots in culinary tradition, is an excellent choice for family meals or special occasions. These stuffed pasta tubes are versatile and can be adapted according to preferred ingredients. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in making delicious cannelloni filled with a creamy combination of sweet cheese and Prague ham, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce.

Ingredients

- 250 g dry lasagna sheets
- 200 g sweet cheese (ricotta)
- 300 g diced mozzarella
- 2 egg yolks
- 120 g sliced Prague ham
- 60 g grated parmesan
- 800 g canned tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Nutmeg (a pinch)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for decoration

Useful Tips about Ingredients

- Lasagna sheets: You can use dry lasagna sheets, but be sure to check the package instructions for proper boiling. Some types can be used directly without boiling.
- Sweet cheese: Ricotta is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture and taste.
- Mozzarella: Choose fresh mozzarella for a more intense flavor. If you want a heartier dish, you can use smoked mozzarella.
- Prague ham: This adds a salty and savory flavor. You can substitute with other types of ham or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Preparing the Filling

1. Start by preparing the filling. In a large bowl, combine the sweet cheese (ricotta), sliced Prague ham, egg yolks, half of the parmesan, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix well until you have a smooth mixture.
2. Add the diced mozzarella and gently mix to avoid breaking the cheese pieces. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the filling rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step will help firm up the filling.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce

1. Meanwhile, prepare the tomato sauce. Finely chop the onion and sauté it in 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until golden and soft.
2. Add the canned tomatoes, quartered, and the basil leaves. Cook the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Lasagna Sheets

1. Boil the lasagna sheets in salted boiling water for 5-6 minutes until al dente. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to bake in the oven.
2. Once boiled, remove the sheets from the water and immediately dip them in cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and place them on a clean towel, being careful not to stick together.

Filling the Cannelloni

1. On a clean surface, lay out the lasagna sheets. If they are too large, cut them in half.
2. Take a tablespoon of the prepared filling and place it at one end of the lasagna sheet, then roll it tightly to form a cylinder. Repeat the process until you finish all the sheets.

Assembling and Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent the cannelloni from sticking.
2. Place a layer of cannelloni in the dish, followed by a layer of tomato sauce. Sprinkle a layer of parmesan on top. Repeat this process until you finish all the cannelloni, ensuring the last layer is of tomato sauce and parmesan.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the parmesan is golden and crispy.

Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let the cannelloni cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot, decorated with fresh basil leaves and sprinkled with additional grated parmesan. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of cannelloni with cheese and Prague ham contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dish is a good source of protein due to the cheese and ham, while the tomatoes provide an important supply of vitamins and antioxidants.

Recipe Variations

- Vegetarian option: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. This will add a fresh and healthy note to the dish.
- White sauce: Try using a béchamel sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy variant. This sauce is made from butter, flour, and milk, making it an excellent choice for dairy lovers.
- Spices: Experiment with spices and herbs such as oregano, thyme, or even a bit of chili for a spicier taste.

Conclusion

Cannelloni with cheese and Prague ham is a comforting dish full of flavors and textures, perfect for a family meal or with friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any cooking enthusiast. So, embrace your creative side and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 250g dried lasagna sheets, 200g sweet cheese (ricotta), 300g mozzarella cubes, 2 egg yolks, 120g Prague ham, 60g parmesan, 800g tomatoes in broth, 1 small onion, nutmeg (a pinch), salt, pepper