Torta Di Risso
A savory Italian spinach and rice pie with Parmesan, garlic, and a crispy bread crumb topping, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs in a large bowl.
- Fold in drained chopped spinach, partially cooked rice, half and half or milk, pressed garlic, melted butter or margarine, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour olive oil on the bottom of a greased pan.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup bread crumbs on the bottom.
- Pour the spinach and rice mixture over the bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle remaining bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until golden brown on the bottom.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some nutmeg or black pepper to the spinach and rice mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice. For a dairy-free option, substitute the half and half with almond milk and use a plant-based margarine. This dish is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet, making it a winner among vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Torta Di Risso makes a delightful main dish or side. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with soft Italian cookies for dessert, creating a satisfying Italian-inspired dinner experience. You can also enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the torta in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven will keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Torta Di Risso contains roughly 1515 calories, with 16g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1995mg per serving (87% 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 Torta Di Risso ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Torta Di Risso a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Both will give your Torta Di Risso a deliciously cheesy taste while accommodating different dietary needs.
How can I make Torta Di Risso gluten-free?
To make Torta Di Risso gluten-free, simply replace the regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the half and half or milk, are also gluten-free to keep the entire dish compliant with a gluten-free diet.
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).