Spinach and Ricotta Rolls

Introduction

I recently made these Spinach and Ricotta Rolls for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The crispy puff pastry paired with the creamy, savory filling made for the perfect appetizer or light meal. What I love most about these rolls is how simple they are to prepare while still being impressive enough for any occasion. Even my picky eaters were thrilled with how delicious and satisfying they were, and I had to share the recipe with everyone afterward. They’re perfect for a brunch, party, or even a quick snack.

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Why You’ll Love Spinach and Ricotta Rolls

Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are one of those recipes that strike the perfect balance between comfort food and elegance. Here’s why you’ll love making and eating these rolls:

• Flavorful filling: The rich, creamy ricotta cheese is complemented by the savory taste of Parmesan and the earthy, slightly sweet flavor of spinach, creating a filling that is both indulgent and healthy.
• Crispy pastry: The puff pastry surrounding the filling crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
• Versatile dish: These rolls can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a snack. They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or casual family dinners.
• Easy to make: Even though they look impressive, these rolls are simple to prepare with just a few ingredients. The puff pastry does most of the work for you!
• Customizable: You can tweak the filling to suit your preferences by adding herbs, spices, or even a little bit of grated mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

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Ingredients

(Makes 12 Rolls)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 egg, whisked

For the Pastry and Topping:

• 4 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 egg, whisked (for brushing)

Equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Serrated knife
• Baking sheet

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

• Begin by thawing the frozen spinach. To do this, place the spinach bag in a large bowl filled with warm water. Occasionally break up any frozen chunks with your hands to ensure it thaws evenly.
• Once the spinach is completely thawed, transfer it to a fine mesh sieve. Press down on the spinach to remove all excess water. This step is essential to prevent your rolls from becoming soggy.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the whisked egg.
• Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. The filling should be creamy, with the spinach well-distributed throughout.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

• Lay out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a flat surface.
• Spread the spinach and ricotta mixture evenly over each sheet of puff pastry. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges to make rolling easier.
• Carefully roll each sheet of puff pastry into a log shape, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Once rolled, use a sharp serrated knife to cut each roll into 2 or 3 smaller pieces, depending on the size you prefer.

Step 4: Chill the Rolls

• Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Refrigerate the rolls for 10 minutes. Chilling helps the rolls maintain their shape during baking and ensures that the puff pastry crisps up beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• After the rolls have chilled, take them out of the refrigerator and place them back on the baking sheet.
• Whisk the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of each roll to create a golden, glossy finish once baked.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a bit of extra flavor and crunch.

Step 6: Bake

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
• Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be hot, so be sure to handle them with care.

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Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, Based on 12 Rolls)

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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How to Serve

These Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few suggestions on how to serve them:

• As an appetizer: Serve them warm with a dipping sauce such as marinara, garlic butter, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip.
• For lunch or dinner: Pair these rolls with a fresh salad for a light and satisfying meal.
• At a party or gathering: They’re perfect finger food for any occasion, especially when served with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta.
• For a snack: Enjoy them on their own as a quick snack in between meals.

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Additional Tips

1. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these rolls ahead of time. Assemble the rolls, refrigerate them, and bake when you’re ready to serve. The rolls can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
2. Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding mozzarella to the filling will give it a melty, gooey texture. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Crispier Pastry: If you want an even crispier pastry, make sure the puff pastry sheets are well-chilled before baking. You can also brush a little olive oil on the pastry before baking for an extra golden finish.
4. Serving Suggestions: For an Italian-inspired meal, serve these rolls alongside a fresh tomato salad or a classic Caprese salad with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes.
5. Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry sheets. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just sauté it until wilted, then drain it well to remove any excess moisture before using it in the filling.
2. Can I prepare these rolls in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 2 months.
3. Can I freeze these rolls? Yes, these rolls freeze beautifully. Just assemble them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. Bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
4. What can I use instead of sesame seeds? You can use poppy seeds, flax seeds, or even leave the topping off if you prefer. Alternatively, sprinkle some grated Parmesan for a different flavor.
5. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes! Mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese would work wonderfully as alternatives to ricotta and Parmesan.
6. How can I make the rolls spicier? Add some red pepper flakes to the filling or mix in a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
7. Are these rolls vegetarian? Yes, these rolls are vegetarian, making them suitable for anyone who doesn’t eat meat.
8. Can I add meat to the filling? Absolutely! Adding cooked ground chicken, turkey, or sausage will make these rolls heartier if you prefer a meat-based filling.
9. How long should I chill the dough? Chill the rolls for at least 10 minutes before baking. If you prefer, you can chill them longer to firm them up even more.
10. Can I make these rolls without puff pastry? Yes, you can use phyllo dough or shortcrust pastry as an alternative to puff pastry for a different texture.

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Conclusion

These Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that combines creamy cheese, earthy spinach, and crispy puff pastry. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving them as appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. Their versatility and simple ingredients make them a favorite in any kitchen. Enjoy the delicious flavors and impress your guests with these easy-to-make, elegant rolls!

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