Olivolis
Olivolis are savory spinach and cheese dumplings with chopped olives, perfect as an appetizer or side dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Suitable for entertaining or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spinach until partly done and put it through a food grinder, alternating with slices of French bread and parsley.
- Add the beaten eggs, grated Italian cheese, chopped ripe olives, salt, pepper, minced onion, and garlic salt to the mixture.
- Mix well with your hands, then form a tablespoon of the mixture into cylinders about 1 inch thick and 2 inches long.
- Place the formed olivolis on wax paper, cover with a towel, and store in the refrigerator overnight.
- When ready to serve, bring salted water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Drop the olivolis into the boiling water, spacing them so they are not crowded.
- Cook until they float to the top, indicating they are done.
- Lift out with a slotted spoon to drain and place in a shallow casserole or chafing dish to keep warm.
- Serve with meat olive sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding chopped ripe olives or even some crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for extra flavor. If you don't have sour French bread, any crusty bread will work. Make sure the spinach is well-drained after cooking to prevent a watery mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance the olivolis.
Serving Suggestions
Serve olivolis with a rich meat olive sauce for a delicious main dish. They also pair well with a fresh Greek salad or Mediterranean dip for a lighter side. Consider offering a side of roasted vegetables or a simple rice pilaf to round out the meal. These delightful bites are perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer in a pot of water until warmed through, or microwave them in short intervals, ensuring not to overcook them. For best results, avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olivolis contains roughly 264 calories, with 21g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (186% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make olivolis ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the olivolis and store them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just ensure they are well-covered to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for the spinach?
If you don't have spinach, you can use chopped kale or Swiss chard as an alternative. Both will add a different but delicious flavor and texture to the olivolis.
Can I bake olivolis instead of boiling them?
Yes, you can bake the olivolis for a healthier version. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. This method gives them a crispy exterior.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).