Description
These crispy, golden spinach and ricotta balls are deliciously cheesy with a light and fluffy interior. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a vegetarian main dish!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Seasoning:
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for a touch of warmth)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying, or more if baking)
- Marinara sauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- Fresh Spinach: Sauté in a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat until wilted. Cool, then finely chop and squeeze out excess water.
- Frozen Spinach: Thaw, drain, and squeeze out excess water.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix until the mixture is soft but moldable. If it’s too sticky, add more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Form the Balls
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
- For extra crispiness, roll the balls in additional breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Cook the Balls
Pan-Fry Method:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the balls, turning frequently, until golden brown on all sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Bake Method:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush them with olive oil.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, as a pasta topping, or with a fresh salad.
- Garnish with Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Crispier Option: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for the best texture.
- Add-ons: Incorporate herbs like basil or parsley into the mixture for added flavor.
