There’s something utterly comforting about the creaminess of ricotta combined with the vibrant freshness of spinach. I first created these Spinach and Ricotta Rolls on a chilly evening when the scent of baked goods wafting from the kitchen turned my home into a warm sanctuary. This dish is not just a delicious way to enjoy a bit of homemade goodness; it’s a fantastic solution for those moments when you’re tired of the usual fast food lineup but craving something that feels truly special.
These rolls are surprisingly simple to make, inviting even novice chefs into the joyful world of homemade bread. Each fluffy bite offers a delightful contrast between the savory filling and the soft, pillowy dough. Perfect for lunches, a cozy dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they embody the warmth of sharing meals with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s make these enchanting Spinach and Ricotta Rolls that your tastebuds will thank you for!
Why will you love Spinach and Ricotta Rolls?
Homemade Delight: Experience the joy of creating fresh, delicious rolls in your own kitchen.
Creamy Filling: The rich blend of ricotta and spinach offers a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Choice: Perfect for lunchboxes, dinner parties, or as a snack, these rolls are incredibly adaptable for any occasion.
Simple Technique: With straightforward steps, even beginners can master this recipe and impress their family and friends.
Time Well Spent: While they take a little time to prepare, the rewarding aroma and flavor make every minute worthwhile. Plus, try pairing them with a fresh salad for an irresistible meal!
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Full Cream Milk – This creates a soft, tender dough that’s easy to work with.
• Instant Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening, giving your rolls that fluffy texture.
• Caster Sugar – A hint of sweetness balances the flavors in the dough.
• Plain Flour – The backbone of your rolls, choose high-quality flour for the best results.
• Table Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and complements the dough.
• Eggs – Adds richness and helps bind the mixture together.
• Olive Oil – Keeps the rolls moist and adds a lovely flavor.
For the Filling
• Smooth Ricotta Cheese – Creamy and rich, this is the star of your Spinach and Ricotta Rolls!
• Egg – A binder that also contributes to the filling’s richness.
• Minced Garlic – A touch of garlic adds depth and aroma to the filling.
• Salt – Season to taste; it brings out the flavors of the ricotta and spinach.
• Pepper – A hint of spice to elevate the overall taste.
• Dried Oregano – Offers a Mediterranean flair, enhancing the filling’s flavor profile.
• Chopped Spinach – Fresh spinach packs a nutritious punch and bright color.
For the Egg Wash
• Egg – Gives the rolls a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
Get ready to indulge in the delightful world of homemade Spinach and Ricotta Rolls that will make your kitchen feel like a culinary haven!
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
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Warm the Milk: Start by gently warming the full cream milk until it’s lukewarm. Whisk in the instant dry yeast and caster sugar, then let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and foamy.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the plain flour and table salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the olive oil until well mixed.
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Combine Mixtures: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then pour in the egg and olive oil mixture followed by the yeast-infused milk.
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Knead the Dough: Using a dough hook attachment, mix the dough at low speed, gradually increasing to medium. Knead for about 5 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
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Let it Prove: Cover the bowl with a tea towel and place it in a warm spot, allowing the dough to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it has doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the smooth ricotta cheese and one egg for the filling. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.
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Add Spinach: Finely chop the spinach and fold it into the ricotta mixture, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined.
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Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 30x40cm.
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Fill and Roll: Spread the ricotta and spinach filling over the rolled dough, avoiding one long edge. Roll it up tightly from the longest side, then slice into rolls about 2 cm thick.
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Second Proving: Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with baking paper and let them proof for an additional 30 minutes.
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Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are proving, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat another egg to create your egg wash. Brush a little of the egg wash over each roll for that golden finish.
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Bake: Bake the rolls in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully browned. Allow them to cool completely before enjoying.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix and match these fun twists to make your Spinach and Ricotta Rolls even more delightful!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a similar texture.
- Vegan: Use almond milk with a vegan egg substitute and dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based twist.
- Cheesy Boost: Add a generous handful of grated mozzarella or parmesan cheese to the filling for a stringy, cheesy surprise.
- Green Goodness: Incorporate chopped kale or Swiss chard with spinach for an extra nutrient kick and vibrant color.
- Herb Infusion: Swap dried oregano with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh, aromatic depth in your filling.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the ricotta blend for a lively heat.
- Bacon Bits: Fold in cooked and crumbled bacon or pancetta to the filling for a savory, indulgent flavor profile.
- Nutty Texture: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that enhances the overall experience.
What to Serve with Spinach and Ricotta Rolls?
Creating a perfect meal is all about harmony and contrast, tantalizing the taste buds with vibrant flavors and comforting textures.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette brighten up the palate, balancing the rich and creamy rolls.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste creates a delightful aroma that complements the Italian flavors in the Spinach and Ricotta Rolls.
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Tomato Basil Soup: This warm, comforting soup’s acidity cuts through the creaminess of the rolls, making each bite a delight.
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Roasted Vegetables: Carnival hues of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add a crispy texture that enhances the meal’s visual appeal.
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Pesto Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of homemade basil pesto elevates the dish, adding a fresh, herby kick that transforms each roll into a flavor explosion.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty filling, making every bite feel indulgent.
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Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert cleanses the palate after your delicious meal, leaving a bright, zesty finish.
Tips for the Best Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
Perfect Proofing: Ensure your dough is in a warm spot to rise properly; a cold environment can lead to dense rolls.
Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh, chopped spinach enhances the flavor and nutritional value. Avoid using wilted leaves that may affect taste.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make the filling watery.
Flour Your Surface: Use enough flour on your working surface to prevent sticking when rolling out the dough.
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the rolls as they bake for that perfect golden-brown finish.
Prepare these delicious Spinach and Ricotta Rolls and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach and Ricotta Rolls
Room Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the rolls in the refrigerator, where they will last up to 5 days. Just be sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. These Spinach and Ricotta Rolls can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10–15 minutes to regain that lovely warmth and softness.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are a fantastic choice for meal prepping! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to make the dough, allow it to rise, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the filling, mix together the ricotta and spinach, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just take the dough and filling out, shape the rolls, let them proof for the final 30 minutes, and bake as instructed. The rolls will be just as delicious as if freshly made, saving you time on busy weeknights while still offering that homemade touch!
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Fresh, chopped spinach is ideal for this recipe. It brings not only great flavor but also vibrant color and texture. Avoid using wilted or frozen spinach, as they can compromise the filling’s freshness and taste.
How should I store leftover Spinach and Ricotta Rolls?
For room temperature storage, let the rolls cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them well and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze Spinach and Ricotta Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, lovingly wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, ensuring they are completely sealed. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes for that freshly baked feel.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast before using it. Make sure your milk is lukewarm (not hot), as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Additionally, ensure your dough is kept in a warm environment while proving to encourage that lovely fluffy texture.
Are Spinach and Ricotta Rolls suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary considerations, be sure to check for any allergies, particularly to egg or dairy. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the ricotta with cashew or tofu cream. Additionally, if gluten is a concern, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, though this may change the texture slightly.
Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your filling with extras like feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some finely chopped mushrooms. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it could make the filling soggy. Mix and match to suit your taste!
Delicious Spinach and Ricotta Rolls for Home Cook Heroes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the Milk: Start by gently warming the full cream milk until it's lukewarm. Whisk in the instant dry yeast and caster sugar, then let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and foamy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the plain flour and table salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the olive oil until well mixed.
- Combine Mixtures: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then pour in the egg and olive oil mixture followed by the yeast-infused milk.
- Knead the Dough: Using a dough hook attachment, mix the dough at low speed, gradually increasing to medium. Knead for about 5 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
- Let it Prove: Cover the bowl with a tea towel and place it in a warm spot, allowing the dough to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the smooth ricotta cheese and one egg for the filling. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Add Spinach: Finely chop the spinach and fold it into the ricotta mixture, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 30x40cm.
- Fill and Roll: Spread the ricotta and spinach filling over the rolled dough, avoiding one long edge. Roll it up tightly from the longest side, then slice into rolls about 2 cm thick.
- Second Proving: Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with baking paper and let them proof for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are proving, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat another egg to create your egg wash. Brush a little of the egg wash over each roll for that golden finish.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully browned. Allow them to cool completely before enjoying.