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Ricotta and Spinach Roll

17/11/2023

Here is the recipe for the ricotta and spinach roll, a classic and delicious Italian dish.

Ingredients

  • 250 g of fresh or frozen spinach
  • 250 g of ricotta
  • 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • Nutmeg to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pack of rectangular puff pastry or shortcrust pastry
  • Butter to taste (to grease the baking dish)
  • Breadcrumbs to taste (to sprinkle on the baking dish)

Preparation

  1. Prepare the spinach: if using fresh, wash them well under running water and cook for a few minutes in a pan with a drizzle of oil until they reduce in volume. If using frozen spinach, let them thaw and then squeeze them well to remove the excess water.

  2. In a bowl, mix the ricotta with the grated Parmesan, adding the eggs, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

  3. Add the spinach to the ricotta mixture and mix well until the ingredients are well combined.

  4. Unroll the puff pastry or shortcrust on a lightly floured surface and evenly spread the ricotta and spinach filling, leaving a free edge on the sides.

  5. Roll the puff pastry over the filling starting from the longer side, seal the edges and the ends to prevent the filling from coming out during cooking.

  6. Carefully transfer the roll onto a previously buttered and breadcrumbs-sprinkled baking tray.

  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for about 30-40 minutes or until the surface of the roll is golden brown and crispy.

  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

Curiosity

The ricotta and spinach roll is a variation of the classic tortino or flan. The puff pastry adds a crunchiness that makes it particularly inviting either as a main dish accompanied by a simple salad or as a starter if served in smaller slices. In many Italian regions, similar versions of the ricotta and spinach roll are prepared during the holidays and are a must for a buffet.