Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni Recipe

This Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni Recipe combines tender leeks with creamy, savory fillings, all wrapped up in soft cannelloni tubes and topped with a golden layer of melted cheese. This recipe brings together layers of flavors that make each bite comforting and hearty. Ready in just over an hour, this dish makes a fantastic main course for family dinners or special occasions.

What is Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

Rick Stein’s Leek Cannelloni is a baked pasta dish where cannelloni tubes are filled with a blend of leeks and cheese, then topped with a flavorful sauce and baked to perfection. The combination of creamy textures with a slight crunch makes this a cozy yet elegant dish.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Easy and Enjoyable to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe ideal, even for beginners.
• Impressive Presentation: With golden, bubbling cheese on top, this dish looks as amazing as it tastes.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or even weeknight dinners.
• Leek’s Unique Flavor: Leeks add a delicate, sweet flavor, pairing wonderfully with creamy cheese.
• A Hearty Vegetarian Option: Satisfying and filling, this dish is perfect for vegetarians or as a meatless meal option.

Ingredients Needed for Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni

• Cannelloni tubes: 12 tubes, uncooked
• Fresh leeks: 3 medium leeks, finely chopped
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup, for a creamy filling
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated for extra flavor and a subtle nutty taste
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded for a gooey, melted topping
• Garlic cloves: 2 cloves, minced to add depth to the filling
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the leeks
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the filling
• Fresh basil: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) for a hint of herbal flavor
• White sauce or bechamel sauce: 1½ cups, to pour over the cannelloni before baking

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Instructions to Make Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease the baking dish lightly.
2. Sauté the leeks in olive oil with garlic until soft, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Combine ricotta and parmesan in a mixing bowl, then add the cooked leeks and mix until well blended.
4. Stuff the cannelloni tubes with the leek mixture, using a spoon or piping bag.
5. Arrange the filled tubes in the baking dish, ensuring they’re close together.
6. Pour the white sauce over the cannelloni, covering them evenly.
7. Top with mozzarella and parmesan for a crispy, golden crust.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool slightly before serving to set the flavors.

What to Serve With Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette enhances the creamy cannelloni.
• Garlic Bread: A classic choice to soak up any extra sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers pair well.
• Crisp White Wine: Complements the delicate flavors of the dish.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni

• Cook leeks thoroughly to ensure they are tender and sweet.
• Avoid overstuffing the cannelloni tubes for a balanced filling-to-pasta ratio.
• Use a piping bag to fill cannelloni easily and avoid breaking the tubes.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance flavor.
• Layer sauce generously on top for a perfectly moist bake.
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a richer, golden crust.
• Rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.

What are the Variations of Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

• Add spinach: For extra nutrients and a flavor boost, mix spinach with the leek filling.
• Use different cheeses: Try feta, blue cheese, or Gruyère for a unique twist.
• Incorporate mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a delightful earthy taste.
• Try whole wheat cannelloni: For a healthier alternative, whole wheat pasta works well.

How Do I Store Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to a month.
• Keep in the baking dish and cover with foil if planning to reheat within a day.

How Do I Reheat Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

• In the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• In the microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes.
• On the stovetop: Place in a covered pan over low heat, adding a bit of water if necessary.

How Can I Make Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni Healthier?

• Opt for low-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella and ricotta.
• Use whole-grain cannelloni for more fiber and nutrients.
• Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Limit the cheese topping if cutting down on calories.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

How Long Does It Take to Make Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

This Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need just over an hour to have this delicious dish ready to serve.

Can I Make Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the leek filling and stuff the cannelloni tubes in advance. Once assembled in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add the sauce and cheese on top, then bake as usual.

What Is the Best Way to Fill Cannelloni Tubes?

The easiest way to fill cannelloni tubes is by using a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off. This allows for even distribution of the filling and helps avoid breaking the pasta tubes.

Can I Freeze Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni?

Yes, Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni can be frozen after baking. Allow it to cool completely, portion it out, and store it in airtight containers for up to a month. When reheating, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) until thoroughly heated, or thaw in the refrigerator first for quicker reheating.

Final Words

This Rick Stein Leek Cannelloni Recipe is a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. With its tender leeks, creamy ricotta, and golden cheese topping, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a delightful dinner.

Other Recipes to Try

• Rick Stein Thai Fish Cakes
• Rick Stein Lancashire Hot Pot
• Rick Stein Prawn Curry

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