If you’re looking for a delightful snack or appetizer that feels both fancy and homey at the same time, this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine tender puff pastry wrapped around a creamy, cheesy filling loaded with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic—each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory richness and vibrant green goodness. These rolls are not just delicious; they are simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich flavor, inviting texture, and appealing color that makes these rolls irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sauté the garlic and spinach evenly.
- Baby spinach: Provides a fresh, tender, and vibrant green base packed with nutrients.
- Garlic: Infuses the filling with a warm, aromatic punch that awakens your taste buds.
- Ricotta cheese: Offers a creamy, mild texture that forms the heart of the filling.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Cheddar cheese: Brings a slightly tangy, melting quality to the filling.
- Egg: Binds the filling ingredients and gives structure to the rolls.
- Shallots or green onions: Impart a mild onion flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all the flavors.
- Puff pastry sheet: The flaky, buttery exterior that encases the creamy filling to perfection.
- Sesame seeds (optional): A lovely crunchy garnish that gives a subtle nutty aftertaste and an attractive finish.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds to release its delicious aroma without burning. Then, toss in the baby spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, which should be a minute or two. This step ensures the spinach softens and blends beautifully with the cheeses later on.
Step 2: Combine Cheese and Spinach
In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta, parmesan, and cheddar cheeses with the egg to create a rich, creamy base. Stir in finely chopped shallots or green onions to add a hint of freshness, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the cooked spinach and garlic mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated without losing the vibrant greens.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into rectangular pieces. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling along one edge of each rectangle. Carefully roll the pastry over the filling to enclose it, creating tight spirals or rolls that will bake up beautifully layered and flaky.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Brush the outside of each roll with a beaten egg to encourage that golden, glossy finish once baked. If you love a touch of crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top. Let the rolls chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes—this step helps the pastries firm up, making them easier to slice into bite-sized pieces and retain their shape while baking.
Step 5: Bake or Air Fry
For traditional oven-baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), place the rolls on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake for 25 minutes or until they’re deliciously golden and crispy on the outside. If you prefer the air fryer, arrange the rolls in the basket and cook at 390°F (200°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes. Both methods yield wonderfully flaky, soft, and flavorful bites perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can really elevate your presentation and flavor. Try sprinkling finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil over your Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe for a burst of color and herbaceous aroma. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of flaky sea salt right after baking can also add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine brightest as part of a bigger meal or snack platter. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness, or pair them with a bowl of warm tomato soup for a comforting combo. For something more indulgent, a side of roasted veggies or marinated olives complements the cheesy filling beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a party, present the Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty platter lined with fresh spinach leaves. Arrange the rolls in a spiral or layered pattern for visual appeal. You can also serve them with dipping sauces such as marinara, pesto, or a creamy garlic dip for added dimension and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover rolls can be stored easily in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The puff pastry might lose a bit of its crispness but reheating will bring back some of that delightful texture while keeping the filling creamy and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these rolls well in advance, you can freeze them either before or after baking. For freezing before baking, roll them up and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months—just bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven. For freezing baked rolls, cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to a month.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy, but if you’re in a hurry, microwaving for about 30 seconds and then crisping slightly under a broiler works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the filling. This prevents soggy pastry and keeps the rolls nice and crisp.
Is puff pastry the only pastry I can use?
Puff pastry works best in this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe because of its buttery flakiness, but you can also experiment with filo pastry for a lighter, crispier texture if you prefer.
Can these rolls be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute ricotta and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg or other egg replacer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly, but the rolls will still be delicious.
How long can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
You can assemble the rolls and keep them refrigerated for up to 12 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them well so the pastry doesn’t dry out. This is great for busy days or entertaining.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like dill or mint to personalize your Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe and give it your unique twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about these Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe that makes them a forever favorite in my kitchen. Whether for a party appetizer or a cozy snack, their blend of flavors and flaky texture truly wins hearts with every bite. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you might just find your next go-to dish that’s as simple to make as it is unforgettable to eat.
Print
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and savory Spinach and Ricotta Rolls combine tender baby spinach, creamy ricotta, parmesan, and cheddar cheeses baked inside flaky puff pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these rolls are easy to prepare and can be baked in the oven or air-fried for a crispy, golden finish.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup shallots or green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to release flavors, then add baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, egg, chopped shallots or green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the cooked spinach and garlic mixture until well blended.
- Assemble Rolls: Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into rectangles. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling along one edge of each rectangle, then roll tightly to enclose the filling completely.
- Brush and Garnish: Brush the rolled pastries with beaten egg to create a golden crust and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Chill Rolls: Refrigerate the rolls for 15 minutes to firm up the dough and filling, making them easier to slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut into Pieces: After chilling, cut the rolls into bite-sized pieces for individual servings.
- Bake: Place the pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Alternative Air Fryer Method: After preparing the rolls as above, place the rolls in the air fryer basket and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the cheeses used do not contain animal rennet.
- You can substitute shallots with green onions depending on availability.
- Allowing the rolls to chill before baking helps to maintain their shape and texture.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or snack alongside dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.
- The air fryer method results in a slightly crispier exterior with a shorter cook time.
