Creamy Ricotta and Spinach Roll Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Roll – A Delicious and Savory Dish for Your Table

Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

For a delightful and hearty meal that brings together creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a perfect egg-based roll, follow these easy steps to create this Rotolo Ricotta e Spinaci (Ricotta and Spinach Roll). This recipe balances flavors in a satisfying, wholesome dish, perfect for family dinners or a weekend treat.

1. Cook the Spinach:
   Begin by washing the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt. Once rinsed, pat the spinach dry with a paper towel. In a large pan, heat 30g of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic clove and let it cook until golden brown, releasing its aromatic oils. Afterward, remove the garlic and add the spinach to the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the spinach to cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring that the spinach wilts down. Once the spinach has softened and the water has evaporated, remove the lid and set the spinach aside.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   While the spinach is cooling, take a large mixing bowl and crack 430g of eggs into it. Whisk the eggs lightly with a fork or a whisk until they are well combined. Season the eggs with salt and black pepper to taste. Now, add 50g of Grana Padano DOP cheese to the eggs and stir to combine. Next, sift 100g of ricotta cheese directly into the egg mixture. The ricotta will provide a smooth, creamy texture that complements the dish’s richness.

3. Bake the Egg Base:
   Prepare a 34×27 cm baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it with a bit of oil. Pour the egg and ricotta mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes, or 160°C (320°F) for 15-20 minutes if using a convection oven. The frittata should cook through while remaining soft in the middle, with no burnt edges. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven.

4. Finish with Grana Padano:
   Sprinkle the remaining 30g of Grana Padano DOP cheese over the top of the frittata while it’s still hot. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and form a golden, crispy crust on the surface of the frittata.

5. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
   While the frittata is cooling, sift 500g of ricotta cheese into a mixing bowl. Add fresh thyme leaves to the ricotta and season with salt and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to create a smooth filling.

6. Assemble the Roll:
   Once the frittata has cooled to room temperature, carefully spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the surface. Be sure to cover it completely, ensuring each bite will have the creamy ricotta filling. Next, gently roll the frittata into a tight log, taking care not to tear the edges. The texture should be soft yet firm enough to hold together.

7. Serving Suggestions:
   Slice the ricotta and spinach roll into generous portions and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The combination of flavors—creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and a delicate egg base—offers a satisfying experience with every bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

This Rotolo Ricotta e Spinaci is an incredibly versatile dish, easily adaptable to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. You can substitute the spinach with other leafy greens, such as chard or kale, or even add a variety of herbs to the ricotta filling for a burst of fresh flavors. Whether served as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this dish is sure to be a favorite at the dinner table.

The creamy, cheese-filled center wrapped in a perfectly baked egg base creates a unique and indulgent flavor profile, making this recipe a perfect addition to any meal plan. It’s simple, yet sophisticated, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a delicious side.

Enjoy your meal and share it with friends and family on your next gathering. It’s a perfect recipe to showcase your culinary skills while enjoying a satisfying and flavorful dish. Happy cooking from Love With Recipes!