Vegan Cannelloni with Asparagus and Béchamel

Enjoy a delicious vegan cannelloni recipe featuring asparagus wrapped in lasagna sheets and baked with creamy vegan béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan. Perfect for a delightful spring dinner!

This post was originally published on April 7, 2016 and updated on May 8, 2023 by Elena Szeliga. 

Discover the joys of a mouthwatering vegan cannelloni with this delightful recipe that combines tender asparagus, a rich, silky and creamy vegan béchamel sauce, and a dusting of vegan parmesan.

This recipe is such a great way to enjoy asparagus season and celebrate spring.

I love cannelloni. It's satisfying, surprisingly easy to make, and tastes delicious.

Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends (just like my vegan stuffed shells). These asparagus rollups look both impressive and festive.

Let's dive into the various ways to make vegan cannelloni and explore why this particular recipe works so well.

Ways to Make Vegan Cannelloni

There are numerous ways to make vegan cannelloni, from using plant-based alternatives to cheese and meat to using recipes incorporating a variety of delicious vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

In this recipe, we'll focus on using asparagus as our star ingredient, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

And, if you're looking for other vegan food ideas that use asparagus but doesn't include pasta or cannelloni tubes, try these flavorsome, soy-free vegan quiche.

Why This Recipe Works

This vegan cannelloni recipe works because it brings together the freshness of asparagus, the creaminess of vegan béchamel sauce, and the savory touch of vegan parmesan.

The lasagna sheets provide a tender wrapping for the asparagus, while the bechamel and parmesan add richness and depth to the dish.

It's a harmonious blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Make Vegan Cannelloni

These baked asparagus cannelloni are surprisingly easy to make, yet they look splendid and never fail to impress. For quick step-by-step instructions, check this vegan cannelloni web story.

To make this vegan cannelloni recipe, you'll need to cook the lasagna sheets (you can also use gluten-free lasagna sheets if needed), blanch the asparagus, prepare the vegan béchamel and parmesan, and assemble the pasta dish before baking.

By wrapping the asparagus in the lasagna sheets, you create a wonderful presentation while ensuring that every bite is filled with the perfect combination of ingredients.

Lastly, garnish with microgreens for an extra touch of elegance.

Add spinach or different vegan cheese, switch up the herbs, add different veggies, or go with tofu ricotta cannelloni instead of regular.

Vegan cooking can be so versatile, and this recipe is the perfect example. Use my recipe as a solid foundation, and don't be afraid to experiment.

Tips for Making Vegan Cannelloni

My recipe for the vegetarian cannelloni is really simple and it's difficult to get it wrong.

But I've got a few tips for you that makes the preparation process easier and the end result perfect every time.

1. Partially cook the lasagna sheets: To ensure the perfect texture, cook the lasagna sheets just until they are pliable, but not fully cooked. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy when baked with the asparagus and sauce but makes them easy enough to manipulate into cannelloni shells.
2. Blanch the asparagus: Briefly blanching the asparagus in boiling water helps to preserve its vibrant green color and maintain a slightly crisp texture. Be sure to immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice bath after blanching to halt the cooking process.
3. Be generous: The vegan béchamel sauce and vegan parmesan contribute to the creaminess and flavor of the dish. Don't skimp on these components - they enhance the overall taste and texture of your vegan cannelloni.
4. Explore additional flavors: Feel free to get creative and incorporate other ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, vegan ricotta, or even spinach, to add variety and depth to the filling. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect vegan cannelloni.
5. Choose a high-quality vegan parmesan: The quality of your vegan parmesan can greatly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for a well-reviewed brand or consider making your own homemade vegan parmesan to ensure the best taste and consistency.
6. Boost the cheesy flavor: You can add a sprinkling of nutritional yeast to as your sauce thickens to give this irresistible comfort food an extra cheesy kick that the whole family and all your non-vegan friends will appreciate.
7. Up the flavor profile: Add garlic powder, black pepper, or a dash of paprika to suit your tastebuds.
8. Preheat the oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking your cannelloni. This will help the dish cook evenly and achieve the desired golden-brown finish.
9. Grease the baking dish: Lightly grease your baking dish with oil or vegan butter to prevent the cannelloni from sticking and to make serving easier.
10. Check for doneness: To ensure the cannelloni is fully cooked, check that the lasagna sheets are tender and the filling is heated through. If needed, adjust the baking time accordingly.
11. Allow the dish to rest: After removing the cannelloni from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make the dish easier to serve.
12. Presentation matters: For an elegant presentation, garnish the finished dish with microgreens, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of extra vegan parmesan. A beautiful presentation will make your vegan cannelloni even more enjoyable to serve and eat.

Serving Options

This vegetarian cannelloni is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some additional serving options to consider:

• Crisp Green Salad: A light and fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the cannelloni beautifully.
• Shaved Asparagus Salad with Peanut Dressing , Asparagus Radish Salad and Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad with Asparagus and Rhubarb for a complete springtime meal.
  
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing for Italian dishes. Opt for a vegan version by using dairy-free butter and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan.
• Vegan Caprese Salad: Recreate this classic Italian salad with thick slices of ripe tomatoes, vegan mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Eggplant Parmesan: A vegan eggplant Parmesan dish, made with breaded and baked eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and dairy-free cheese, adds depth and heartiness to the meal.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with red onion, fresh basil, and a light vinaigrette offers a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm and creamy cannelloni.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve your cannelloni alongside a medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs.
• Focaccia Bread: A slice of warm, homemade focaccia bread, infused with rosemary, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes, makes a lovely accompaniment to this dish.
• Vegan Caesar Salad: Pair the cannelloni with a vegan Caesar salad made from crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dairy-free Caesar dressing.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and vegan cheese, adds a comforting, hearty touch to your meal.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Tangy and tender marinated artichoke hearts bring a burst of flavor and a lovely texture contrast to the table.

Storing and Reheating Vegan Cannelloni

Properly storing your cannelloni help maintain its flavor, texture, and freshness.

The storage instructions are pretty much the same as for my beautiful vegan eggplant lasanga recipe and most other similar vegan pasta recipes. Follow these guidelines for the best results:

1. Allow the cannelloni to cool completely: After cooking the vegan cannelloni, let it cool to room temperature before attempting to store it. This will help prevent condensation and sogginess.
2. Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled vegan cannelloni to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the cannelloni in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Freeze for longer storage: If you'd like to store your vegan cannelloni for a more extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or a resealable plastic freezer bag. Be sure to label the container or bag with the date and contents. Frozen vegan cannelloni can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
4. Reheating refrigerated cannelloni: To reheat the refrigerated vegan cannelloni, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil and cover the dish loosely with a fresh piece of aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out or burning. Heat the cannelloni for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
5. Reheating frozen cannelloni: You can reheat frozen vegan cannelloni without thawing it first. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and cover the dish loosely with a fresh piece of foil. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until heated through and the sauce is bubbling. Be sure to check for doneness, as the exact reheating time may vary depending on the size of the portions.

If you like this recipe, leave your feedback in the comments below, along with the star rating! It would be great if you shared the recipe with your family and friends 🙂

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