Cannellonis aux Crevettes et au Crabe avec Sauce Crémeuse au Citron

🔹 Introduction

Cannelloni is a classic Italian pasta dish that typically features large pasta tubes stuffed with savory fillings, then baked with rich sauces. In this refined version, the sea takes center stage with shrimp and crab meat, creating a luxurious seafood filling enhanced by a creamy lemon sauce. This dish is elegant yet comforting, making it perfect for festive dinners, family gatherings, or romantic evenings. The tangy touch of lemon balances the richness of the cream and seafood, offering a burst of freshness in every bite.

🛒 Ingredients

For 4–6 servings:

For the Cannelloni Filling

• 12 to 16 cannelloni tubes (dry or fresh)
• 250 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 200 g crab meat (fresh or canned, flaked)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 150 g spinach (optional, for color and nutrition)
• 100 g ricotta cheese (or mascarpone for extra creaminess)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Lemon Sauce

• 40 g butter
• 40 g flour
• 500 ml milk (warm)
• 200 ml heavy cream
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 80 g grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, white pepper, and nutmeg to taste

For the Topping

• 100 g grated mozzarella (or Gruyère/Emmental)
• Extra parsley and lemon slices for garnish

🍴 Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink (2–3 minutes).
4. Add crab meat and spinach, stir until combined.
5. Remove from heat, mix with ricotta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannelloni Tubes

• If using dried cannelloni, boil in salted water until slightly softened (al dente).
• If fresh, you can use them directly without pre-cooking.
• Stuff each cannelloni tube with the seafood mixture using a spoon or piping bag.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan, add flour, and whisk to make a roux.
2. Gradually add warm milk, whisking until smooth and thick.
3. Stir in cream, lemon zest, and juice.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese for extra depth.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Arrange stuffed cannelloni in a single layer.
3. Pour the creamy lemon sauce evenly over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella (or Gruyère) on top.

Step 5: Bake

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
• Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving.

📖 History of Cannelloni

Cannelloni originated in Italy during the Renaissance. Traditionally, it was filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables, then baked in béchamel or tomato sauce. Over time, seafood variations became popular, particularly in coastal regions. The lemon-cream combination is inspired by Southern Italian cuisine, where citrus fruits from Amalfi and Sicily are often paired with seafood.

🌱 Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Shrimp and crab provide lean, high-quality protein.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes heart and brain health.
• Calcium & Vitamin D: From cream, milk, and cheese for strong bones.
• Antioxidants: Spinach and parsley boost immunity.
• Mood Booster: Comforting creamy sauce with refreshing lemon uplifts spirits.

🏗️ Formation (Structure of the Dish)

• Base: Thin layer of sauce to prevent sticking.
• Middle: Stuffed cannelloni filled with seafood mixture.
• Top: Creamy lemon sauce covering all tubes.
• Final Layer: Melted golden cheese for texture and flavor.

💞 Lovers of the Dish

This dish is adored by:

• Seafood lovers who appreciate refined flavors.
• Families who enjoy hearty yet elegant meals.
• Romantic couples sharing a special dinner.
• Food enthusiasts looking for an Italian–Mediterranean fusion.

🔚 Conclusion

Cannellonis aux crevettes et au crabe avec sauce crémeuse au citron is more than a recipe—it’s an experience of elegance, comfort, and flavor. It unites the rich traditions of Italian pasta with the freshness of the sea, all brightened by citrus. Whether served at a festive table, a cozy family dinner, or a romantic evening, this dish is sure to win hearts.

💛 Lovers of good food will always remember the warmth of its cream, the freshness of its lemon, and the sweetness of its seafood.