Spaghetti and spinach roll

Spaghetti and Spinach Roll: A Unique Appetizer

If you’ve ever wanted to impress friends or family with a spectacular yet easy-to-make appetizer, the spaghetti and spinach roll is the perfect solution. This recipe not only looks fantastic, but its savory taste will delight all taste buds. Most people don’t think of spaghetti as a main ingredient in appetizers, but this reinvented recipe manages to add a touch of originality to any meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients:
- 200 g spaghetti
- 400 g frozen spinach
- 200 g red pepper paste
- 200 g cheese
- 400 g cream cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 200 g sour cream

I. Preparing the Spaghetti
1. Start by boiling a large pot of water and adding a teaspoon of salt.
2. When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
3. Once done, drain the spaghetti and let it cool slightly. Then, mix it with 200 g of cream cheese to give it a creamy taste and delicate texture.

II. Preparing the Filling
1. Meanwhile, thaw the spinach and squeeze out excess water. Using frozen spinach is not only quick but also an excellent nutritious option, full of vitamins.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed spinach with finely chopped dill (which will add a fresh and fragrant flavor), 2 eggs, and salt to taste. This mixture will create a tasty base for the roll.
3. In another bowl, prepare the red pepper paste. This will add a note of sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish.

III. Assembling the Roll
1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Spread the spinach mixture evenly on the parchment paper, followed by a layer of red pepper paste. Make sure the layer is even and not too thick (about 0.5 cm).
3. Grate the cheese and generously sprinkle it over the spinach and red pepper paste.
4. Place the cooked spaghetti mixed with cream cheese on top of the cheese.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the other 4 eggs together with the sour cream and pour the mixture evenly over the composition in the tray.

IV. Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat) and place the tray inside. Let it bake for about 45 minutes or until the roll turns slightly golden and firm to the touch.
2. After baking, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential, as a warm roll is more likely to break.

V. Rolling and Serving
1. Spread the roll with the remaining cream cheese; this will not only add an extra layer of flavor but also provide a creamy texture.
2. Using the parchment paper, carefully roll the roll, being careful not to break it. It’s a delicate moment, but with a little patience, you will succeed.
3. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours to firm up and cool completely.

VI. Slicing and Serving
1. Once cooled, slice the roll to your desired thickness. These slices are perfect for serving as a cold appetizer.
2. The spaghetti and spinach roll pairs perfectly with a yogurt sauce or a fresh salad, and a glass of white wine will complement the meal beautifully.

Practical Tips:
- You can vary the recipe by adding other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or olives for a more complex flavor.
- If you’re in a hurry, use whole grain spaghetti for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- The roll can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days if not consumed. You can use the REHEAT and KEEP WARM functions of the oven to keep it warm.

Nutritional Benefits:
This roll is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, as well as vitamins and minerals from the spinach. Spinach is known for its antioxidant properties and benefits for eye health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can experiment with whole grain pasta or even gluten-free pasta for a version tailored to your needs.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe for vegans by using vegan cheese and substituting the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed mixtures.

3. How can I vary the flavors?
Adding spices like paprika, garlic, or herbs can enhance the flavor of the roll.

This spaghetti and spinach roll is not just a delicious appetizer but also a way to bring a touch of creativity to your kitchen. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!