Spinach-Ricotta Filling
A flavorful spinach and ricotta filling accented with Parmesan and nutmeg, perfect for stuffed pasta or pastries, offering a creamy, savory taste suitable for vegetarian meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the fresh spinach with a small amount of water in a large saucepan.
- Simmer, covered, for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Drain well.
- Squeeze the spinach to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the spinach.
- In a bowl, mix chopped spinach, chopped onion, butter, beaten egg, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and ground nutmeg.
- Use as a filling for pasta, pastries, or other dishes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream along with the ricotta. If you're using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. This filling is versatile and can be used in dishes like Surprise In The Mail Spinach Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach-ricotta filling is perfect for stuffed pasta like ravioli or shells, and it pairs beautifully with a light tomato sauce. You can also use it as a filling for pastries or savory pies. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delicious twist, try it with Fettuccine With Shiitake Mushrooms And Rosemary.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spinach-ricotta filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use it straight from the fridge in lasagna or stuffed pasta dishes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Ricotta Filling contains roughly 722 calories, with 19g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach for this recipe. Just ensure it's thoroughly thawed and drained to remove excess moisture. This makes preparation quicker and easier, while still providing great flavor.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor to the filling, making it suitable for vegan diets.
How can I make this filling more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your filling, consider adding minced garlic or sautéed mushrooms. Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can also elevate the taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper or lemon zest can add a zing that complements the spinach beautifully.
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).