Spinach Dumplings
Delicious spinach dumplings with a cheesy, savory flavor, perfect for a comforting meal. They pair well with spaghetti sauce and are suitable for vegetarian diets.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach thoroughly, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Squeeze dry and chop up finely.
- Melt butter in a skillet over moderate heat.
- Add spinach and grated onion, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until most of the moisture is absorbed.
- Add Ricotta cheese and cook for 3 to 4 minutes longer, mixing well.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the Ricotta cheese with cottage cheese. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just blanch it briefly before cooking. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to avoid watery dumplings. This dish can be served as a side or main course, and pairs beautifully with Mary Ann'S Fettucine Zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dumplings topped with warm spaghetti sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. They can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a delightful appetizer. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side salad or some Italian Popcorn for a fun crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dumplings in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or spaghetti sauce to keep them moist. Cover with a lid to steam them slightly, ensuring they heat through without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Dumplings contains roughly 33 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% 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 use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just ensure to wash and blanch it briefly before chopping. This will help maintain its flavor and texture. You'll need about 12 oz. of fresh spinach to equal the 10 oz. of frozen chopped spinach used in the recipe.
How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are cooked when they are heated through and slightly firm to the touch. If you are boiling them, they should float to the top of the water, which generally indicates that they are ready. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F.
Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before cooking them. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).