Indulge in the comforting flavors of Spinach and Kalamata Olive Stuffed Manicotti, a Mediterranean twist on a classic Italian dish. Tender manicotti shells are lovingly filled with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella mixture, enhanced by the savory bite of chopped Kalamata olives and the vibrant freshness of sautéed spinach. Smothered in rich marinara sauce and baked to bubbly, golden perfection, this dish offers a harmonious blend of tangy, salty, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With easy preparation and a balance of wholesome ingredients, you’ll be impressing family and friends with a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired feast!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Once cooled, chop the spinach finely.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, Kalamata olives, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. Place the filled shells in a single layer in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are completely covered. Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories |
3947 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 163.9 g | 210% | |
| Saturated Fat | 73.0 g | 365% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 648 mg | 216% | |
| Sodium | 7805 mg | 339% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 436.8 g | 159% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.6 g | 124% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.2 g | ||
| Protein | 195.9 g | 392% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 4219 mg | 325% | |
| Iron | 22.6 mg | 126% | |
| Potassium | 1192 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.