Try this easy version of a popular Italian dish. It can be made in advance and refrigerated until baking - a plus if you are preparing it for a guest meal. Preparation time: 25 minutes. Baking time: 25 to 30 minutes. Oven temperature: 350 degrees.

FOR 4 SERVINGS YOU WILL NEED:

8 manicotti shells
2 c. sm. curd cottage cheese
1 pkg. (3 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 c. chopped parsley
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 green onion, sliced
1/8 tsp. salt
2 c. marinara sauce or 1 jar or can (15 oz.) marinara sauce
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach
Parsley sprigs

1. Cook manicotti shells in boiling, salted water until barely tender as directed on the package. Rinse with cold water. Drain.

2. Combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, onion and salt; mixing well.

3. Fill shells with cheese mixture. Arrange in lightly oiled baking dish or pan. Cover with marinara sauce. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, cook spinach as directed on package. Drain well. Spoon down center of manicotti just before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Good served with: A green salad with Italian dressing and Italian or French bread. A Chianti wine or fruit punch makes a good choice for the beverage.

FOR 2 SERVINGS: Half of the ingredients. Use 1 small egg. FOR 8 SERVINGS; Double the ingredients.