The crispy layers of buttery puff pastry wrapped around a cheesy, savory spinach and ricotta filling make these rolls the perfect indulgence. They’re light enough to enjoy as a snack, but hearty enough to serve at brunch, lunch, or even dinner.
Whether you’re prepping ahead for a party or looking for a comforting bite to freeze and enjoy later, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm to experience the full richness of the melty cheese and aromatic garlic in every bite. They’re a go-to for entertaining or simply spoiling yourself.
Full Recipe:
Filling:
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250g / 8 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed
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400g / 13 oz firm ricotta
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¾ cup grated parmesan
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1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, tasty, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Pepper Jack)
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1 egg
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1 large garlic clove, minced
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Pinch of nutmeg
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¼ – ½ tsp salt
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Black pepper, to taste
Rolls:
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3 sheets puff pastry (about 25cm/10” squares)
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1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
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Sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
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Place frozen spinach in a colander and squeeze out excess water using a wooden spoon, tea towel, or hands.
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Transfer spinach to a large mixing bowl and add all filling ingredients. Mix until well combined.
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Cut each puff pastry sheet in half to make 6 rectangles.
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Divide the filling evenly among the pastry pieces.
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Roll each rectangle up, sealing with a brush of beaten egg and placing the seam side down.
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Chill the rolls in the fridge for 15 minutes.
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Lightly grease two baking trays with spray oil.
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Cut each roll into 4 pieces (or preferred size), place on trays, brush tops with beaten egg, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
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Bake for 25 minutes. Rotate trays — move the bottom one to the top — and bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
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Best served warm, but also great for freezing and reheating.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 202 kcal per roll | Servings: 24 rolls
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls: A Deliciously Cheesy and Healthy Snack Option
Spinach and ricotta rolls are a perfect combination of cheesy goodness and the nutritious benefits of spinach, all wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. These rolls are an ideal finger food for parties, a comforting snack for any time of the day, or even a delightful lunchbox addition. Not only do they provide a delicious burst of flavors, but they also offer a range of health benefits, making them a fantastic option for a variety of occasions. In this article, we will explore the health benefits of this dish, tips for preparation, creative variations, and why this recipe is a favorite among many.
Health Benefits of Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
When it comes to health benefits, spinach is the star of this recipe. Spinach is packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, which play vital roles in immune function, skin health, and bone health, respectively. Spinach is also a great source of folate, iron, and magnesium, which are crucial for red blood cell production, muscle function, and maintaining healthy bones. Furthermore, spinach is high in antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health by protecting against oxidative damage.
Ricotta cheese, the other main ingredient, is also a nutrient-rich component of this recipe. Although cheese is often thought of as indulgent, ricotta is relatively low in fat and calories compared to other cheeses, making it a healthier option. It’s high in protein and calcium, which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones and muscles. The combination of spinach and ricotta not only makes for a delicious filling but also provides a balanced mix of nutrients that support a healthy diet.
The puff pastry used to encase the filling does add some extra calories and fat, but when consumed in moderation, it’s an acceptable addition to the recipe. Puff pastry adds a delightful crispy texture that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling, creating a well-rounded dish.
Preparation Tips for Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
To make your spinach and ricotta rolls as delicious as possible, follow these preparation tips for the best results:
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Use frozen spinach for convenience: Frozen spinach is a convenient option because it’s already chopped and readily available. Additionally, it’s picked and frozen at its peak freshness, so it retains its nutrients. Be sure to thaw the spinach and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the ricotta filling. This step ensures that your rolls won’t become soggy, as excess moisture could make the pastry soggy and less crispy.
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Choose the right ricotta: Not all ricotta is created equal. For the best results, use firm ricotta that is less watery. Soft, fresh ricotta can be too creamy and may introduce too much moisture to the filling. If you only have fresh ricotta, drain it in a colander for about 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
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Puff pastry should be cold: When working with puff pastry, it’s important to keep it cold until you’re ready to assemble the rolls. This ensures that the pastry will puff up nicely during baking, giving you a crispy, golden exterior. You can leave it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll it out, and always avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods.
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Chill before baking: Once you’ve assembled the rolls, refrigerate them for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps the filling to set and prevents the rolls from unraveling while baking.
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Brushing with egg: Brushing the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg before baking will give them a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish. This also helps to seal the edges of the pastry, keeping the filling inside.
Creative Variations of Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
One of the best aspects of spinach and ricotta rolls is their versatility. You can easily modify the filling or the pastry to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some creative variations to try:
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Add other vegetables: If you want to increase the nutritional value or add more flavor, try mixing other vegetables into the spinach filling. Mushrooms, grated zucchini, or finely chopped onions are great options. These vegetables will add texture and richness to the filling while maintaining the overall flavor profile.
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Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the filling. This will give the rolls a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy ricotta and savory spinach.
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Substitute the cheese: While ricotta is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses depending on your taste. Feta cheese provides a tangy twist, while mozzarella offers a mild and gooey filling. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based ricotta substitute made from almonds or tofu.
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Try a whole wheat or gluten-free pastry: For those with dietary restrictions, consider using whole wheat puff pastry for a more wholesome option. Alternatively, gluten-free puff pastry can be used to make these rolls suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Herb variations: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill can be incorporated into the filling to enhance the flavor. A touch of nutmeg, as suggested in the original recipe, adds warmth and depth to the rolls, but feel free to experiment with other spices to suit your palate.
The Appeal of Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
What makes spinach and ricotta rolls so appealing is the combination of textures and flavors. The rich, creamy, and slightly tangy filling is balanced perfectly by the crisp, buttery, and flaky puff pastry. The result is a mouthwatering bite that is both comforting and indulgent, making it an ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion.
These rolls are also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving them. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or need a quick snack for the family, these spinach and ricotta rolls are an easy and crowd-pleasing option.
Additionally, the recipe is simple to make, especially with the convenience of frozen spinach and ready-made puff pastry. It doesn’t require a lot of cooking skills or time, making it an accessible option for beginner cooks or those looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
The ability to make these rolls ahead of time and freeze them is another big appeal. Whether you bake them first and freeze them for later or freeze the unbaked rolls to cook at a later time, this flexibility makes them an ideal dish to prepare in advance, saving you time when you need it most.
Conclusion: Why Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Are a Must-Try
Spinach and ricotta rolls are a fantastic addition to any recipe collection. They offer a combination of health benefits from the spinach and ricotta, all wrapped in the golden, flaky goodness of puff pastry. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a snack, or a lunchbox treat, these rolls are sure to impress with their satisfying texture and flavor. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, from adding vegetables and spices to experimenting with different types of cheese or pastry. Plus, the ability to make them ahead of time or freeze them for later makes them an easy, time-saving option. Overall, spinach and ricotta rolls are a perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition, making them an ideal choice for a variety of occasions.