Ricotta and Spinach Roll

Ricotta and Spinach Roll - Delicious rolled pasta filled with ricotta and spinach

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the wonderful world of pasta! Today, I will guide you in preparing a classic yet surprisingly simple recipe that will add a touch of elegance to your table: Ricotta and Spinach Roll. This delicious roll combines the fine texture of ricotta with the flavor of spinach, all wrapped in homemade pasta dough. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Brief History

Ricotta and Spinach Roll is a dish that has gained popularity in kitchens around the world due to its versatility and divine taste. Over time, various versions of this recipe have been created, each with a unique twist, but the essence remains constant: combining fresh ingredients to create a comforting and healthy dish.

Ingredients

For the pasta dough:
- 200g flour
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Water (as needed to obtain an elastic dough)

For the filling:
- 500g ricotta (choose fresh ricotta for the best flavor)
- 200g spinach (fresh or frozen, but well drained)
- 1 egg
- 50g grated parmesan
- 50g butter (for a rich flavor)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- Basil (fresh or dried)
- Nutmeg (for a hint of warmth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the sauce:
- 200g butter
- 100g grated parmesan
- Sage (fresh or dried, to enhance the flavors)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the spinach:
Start by placing the spinach in a pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes to blanch it. This step not only softens the spinach but also preserves its vibrant color. Once cooled, chop it finely and make sure to squeeze out the excess water.

2. Preparing the pasta dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the eggs and a pinch of salt. Begin mixing with a fork, then knead with your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If it’s too dry, add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes elastic and easy to shape. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you get a sheet slightly thicker than lasagna sheets, about 2-3 mm.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a pan, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, but do not let it brown. In a bowl, mix the ricotta, egg, parmesan, salt, pepper, basil, nutmeg, and of course, the sautéed onion. Ensure the mixture is well combined. Add the chopped spinach and mix again.

4. Assembling the roll:
On the rolled-out dough, spread the filling evenly, leaving a 1-2 cm space at the edges to avoid spilling out. Roll the dough tightly, being careful not to break it. At the ends, seal the roll like a candy. Place the roll on a clean kitchen towel that you have previously washed with water and vinegar (without detergent) and tie the ends with string.

5. Boiling the roll:
Place a large pot of salted water to boil. When the water is boiling, add the roll and let it cook for 30-35 minutes. After the time is up, remove the roll from the water and let it cool slightly.

6. Preparing the sauce:
In a pan, melt the butter and add the grated parmesan and chopped sage. Stir until the sauce becomes homogeneous and has a delicious aroma.

7. Assembling and baking:
Cut the roll into slices about 4-5 cm thick. Arrange the slices in a heatproof dish and pour the butter and parmesan sauce over them. Sprinkle a little parmesan on top for extra flavor. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 15 minutes, until the slices become golden and crispy.

Serving suggestions and variations

Serve the roll warm, alongside a fresh salad or a marinara sauce, to add a pleasant contrast. You can also add some roasted cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the spinach with grated zucchini or sautéed mushrooms.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the ricotta and egg, and provides an excellent source of iron from the spinach. Additionally, it is a healthier option than other pasta dishes, thanks to the fresh ingredients and cooking method.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with feta or mozzarella, but ricotta offers the perfect creamy texture.
- How can I store the roll? You can store the roll slices in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? While the original recipe is not vegan, you can adapt the filling using crumbled tofu and a vegan cheese alternative, along with fresh vegetables.

Calories

A serving of Ricotta and Spinach Roll contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size. This is a healthier option compared to other pasta dishes, thanks to the natural ingredients and cooking method.

In conclusion, Ricotta and Spinach Roll is an excellent choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes. Remember, cooking is an art form, and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity! Enjoy your meal!