Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Culinary Delight

BY :

Ovia Smith

Posted On :

May 7, 2025

Main dish

Why You’ll Love This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Why You Should Try This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients and Utensils for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Detailed Recipe Steps for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Tips and Variations for Your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

FAQ: Answering Your Questions About Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? Then prepare yourself for an unforgettable culinary journey with these Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and delights the senses. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells bursting with a creamy, herbaceous filling of ricotta cheese, bright lemon zest, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked asparagus. This dish marries the delicate sweetness of asparagus with the tangy freshness of lemon and the comforting richness of ricotta, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. The vibrant green asparagus provides a beautiful contrast against the creamy white filling and the rich red marinara sauce, making it a feast for the eyes as much as the stomach. Whether you’re impressing guests at a Main dish party or simply treating yourself to a delicious weeknight meal, these stuffed shells are sure to become a new family favorite. Prepare to be amazed!

Why You’ll Love This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of the fresh, bright lemon and basil with the creamy ricotta and tender asparagus is simply divine. The lemon brightens the richness of the ricotta, while the basil adds a delightful herbal note that complements the asparagus perfectly. The marinara sauce adds a touch of acidity and sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Want to add some spinach or mushrooms to the filling? Go for it! Prefer a different type of cheese? Experiment! The possibilities are endless. Thirdly, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Despite its elegant presentation and complex flavors, this recipe doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills. Even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Finally, it’s a truly satisfying meal. The combination of pasta, cheese, and vegetables makes for a hearty and filling dish that will leave you feeling completely content.

Why You Should Try This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, this Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe offers several compelling reasons to give it a try. It’s a fantastic way to use fresh, seasonal asparagus, especially during its peak season when it’s at its most tender and flavorful. It’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals. This recipe cleverly disguises the vegetables within a delicious and comforting pasta dish, making it a perfect way to sneak in some extra greens for picky eaters. Furthermore, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells ahead of time, then bake them just before serving, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The leftovers also reheat beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or making extra for lunch the next day. Lastly, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its elegant presentation and delightful taste make it a perfect choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight Main dishs to special celebrations.

Ingredients and Utensils for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Gathering the right ingredients and having the proper tools on hand are essential for a successful cooking experience. Let’s delve into the specifics:

For the Filling:

1 pound fresh asparagus: Choose asparagus spears that are firm and bright green, avoiding any that are limp or woody. Learn more about asparagus on Wikipedia.
1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta is recommended for the creamiest texture, but part-skim can be used as a lighter alternative.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor.
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Freshly zested lemon provides a bright, citrusy note, while the juice adds acidity.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.

For the Shells:

1 (15 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells: Jumbo shells are ideal for holding the generous filling.
2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Low-moisture mozzarella melts best.

Utensils:

Large pot for boiling asparagus and pasta

Colander
Large bowl for mixing the filling
9×13 inch baking dish

Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater
Cutting board and knife

Wooden spoon or spatula

Detailed Recipe Steps for Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Follow these steps for perfectly prepared Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

Prepare the Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. **Avoid overcooking**, as this will result in mushy asparagus. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. **Gently stir** these ingredients together until well combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the ricotta watery. Once well combined, gently fold in the cooled asparagus.
Cook the Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. **Do not overcook** the shells, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain well and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. **Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell** with the ricotta and asparagus mixture. Use a spoon or small spatula to pack the filling evenly. Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.

Bake the Shells: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are mostly covered. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese. **Bake for 20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the shells are heated through.
Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations for Your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Experiment with these tips and variations to personalize your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

Add other vegetables: Enhance the filling with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
Cheese variations: Substitute the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper flavor. Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different melty texture.

Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells. Be sure to check the package directions for cooking times, as they may vary.
Vegan option: Substitute the ricotta cheese with a vegan ricotta alternative and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Ensure your marinara sauce is also vegan-friendly.

Make it ahead: You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
Prevent sticking: Lightly grease the baking dish to prevent the shells from sticking to the bottom.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

While a precise nutritional breakdown depends on the specific ingredients used, Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells offer a good balance of nutrients. Asparagus is low in calories and rich in vitamins K, A, C, and folate, along with fiber. Ricotta cheese provides protein and calcium. Basil is a good source of antioxidants. Lemon adds vitamin C and enhances flavor. The marinara sauce provides lycopene, an antioxidant with potential health benefits. However, remember that this is a relatively high-calorie dish due to the cheese and pasta. Moderate portion sizes are recommended as part of a balanced diet.

FAQ: Answering Your Questions About Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus? A: Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the filling.
Q: What if my shells break while stuffing them? A: Don’t worry if a few shells break. You can still use them. Simply place the broken pieces in the baking dish along with the whole shells.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
Q: How can I tell if the shells are cooked through? A: The shells should be heated through and tender when you insert a fork or knife into the center. The cheese should also be melted and bubbly.
Q: What can I do if the shells become too dry during baking? A: Add a little more marinara sauce to the top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to help keep the shells moist.

Q: Can I use different pasta shapes? A: While jumbo shells work best due to their size, you could potentially use other large pasta shapes such as manicotti or large conchiglie. However, the filling capacity might be slightly different.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This Asparagus & Lemon Basil Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients combined in a harmonious way. The vibrant flavors, satisfying texture, and relative ease of preparation make it a recipe worthy of a place in your culinary repertoire. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family on social media! Happy cooking!