Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Spinach And Ricotta Balls Recipe

Spinach And Ricotta Balls Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delightful spinach and ricotta balls emerge as a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that brings Italian culinary charm to your table. Crispy exterior and creamy interior promise a delectable experience you’ll savor with every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup (240 ml) ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) breadcrumbs (regular or panko)

Seasoning:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Olive oil (for frying or brushing if baking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spinach by gently sautéing in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until it softens and loses its raw appearance. Transfer to a plate and allow to cool completely.
  2. In a spacious mixing vessel, amalgamate ricotta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Fold the cooled spinach into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the blend.
  4. Form the mixture into uniform spherical portions, approximately 1-inch in diameter. If the composition feels overly soft or sticky, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to enhance structural integrity.
  5. Select your preferred cooking technique:

Oven Method: Preheat to 375F. Lightly coat balls with olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Roast for 18-20 minutes, rotating midway to ensure consistent golden-brown coloration.

Skillet Method: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium temperature. Fry balls for 2-3 minutes per side until exterior achieves a crisp, golden finish. Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Air Fryer Method: Set device to 375F. Spritz basket with cooking spray, arrange balls in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, agitating basket halfway through.

  1. Present the spinach ricotta spheres alongside marinara sauce, tzatziki, or garlic aioli for dipping. Enhance visual appeal and flavor profile by sprinkling additional Parmesan and fresh herbs as a final garnish.

Notes

  • Squeeze excess water from wilted spinach using a clean kitchen towel to prevent soggy balls that might fall apart during cooking.
  • Add a small amount of almond flour or extra breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet, ensuring the balls hold their shape perfectly.
  • Experiment with different herbs like fresh basil or thyme to customize the taste profile and add depth to the spinach balls.
  • Swap ricotta for vegan cashew cheese and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a plant-based and gluten-free version of this versatile appetizer.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg