If you’re craving a delightful treat that perfectly balances creamy, cheesy goodness with a fresh burst of spinach, you’re in for a real joy with this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe. These golden, flaky rolls are packed with a luscious ricotta and spinach filling that melts in your mouth, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or party favor. Whether baked or air-fried, they deliver that irresistible crunch with a soft, flavorful inside that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to nailing this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender spinach bringing fresh color and nutrition, to the trio of cheeses creating a rich and creamy texture that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and is perfect for gently sautéing the spinach and garlic.
- Baby spinach: Provides vibrant color, a mild earthiness, and a boost of freshness.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with a fragrant, savory punch.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it forms the base of the filling’s luscious texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens the cheese blend.
- Cheddar cheese: Brings a gentle tang and richness for added depth.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together perfectly.
- Shallots or green onions, chopped: Offers a subtle onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Puff pastry sheet: The flaky, buttery wrapping that turns each roll into a golden crisp delight.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkled on top for a toasty, nutty garnish and extra texture.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Garlic
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn, as that will add bitterness. Then add the baby spinach and cook until it utterly wilts down, releasing its vibrant green color and mellow flavor. This quick sauté softens the spinach and infuses it with garlic goodness, forming the flavorful base of the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
Transfer the wilted spinach and garlic into a mixing bowl. Add ricotta cheese, parmesan, cheddar, and the egg, which will hold everything together beautifully. Stir in the chopped shallots or green onions for added bite, then season generously with salt and pepper. This luxurious mixture combines creaminess, sharpness, and freshness that makes the filling sing in every roll.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, making sure it’s evenly stretched but not too thin. Cut it into rectangles—the size is up to you, but think bite-sized for perfect party snacking or larger for a more filling portion. Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and ricotta mixture along one edge of each rectangle, getting ready for a delicious, flaky roll-up.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
Carefully roll each pastry rectangle tightly over the filling, ensuring the edges are sealed to keep the cheese mixture inside during baking. Brush the exterior with beaten egg to give the rolls a glossy, golden finish once baked. If you’re feeling a little fancy, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top now for that delightful toasted crunch and nutty aroma.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Pop the rolled pastries into the fridge for about 15 minutes. This step firms them up, making them easier to cut into neat bite-sized pieces without squishing the filling. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in presentation and texture, setting these rolls apart.
Step 6: Bake or Air Fry
For classic results, bake your rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) on parchment-lined baking sheets for about 25 minutes until golden and crisp. Alternatively, for a quicker method with a super crispy finish, place the rolls in an air fryer basket and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. Either way, you’ll achieve flaky, irresistible rolls packed with cheesy spinach goodness.
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Once your spinach and ricotta rolls are baked to perfection, a simple garnish can elevate their look and taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add that bright, fresh contrast to the rich filling, while a light dusting of paprika or a drizzle of good olive oil can add visual appeal and extra flavor. Sesame seeds sprinkled on top before baking not only look beautiful but offer a nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft pastry.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine brightest as an appetizer, but paired with the right side dishes, they can make a satisfying meal. Consider fresh mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to brighten the palate, or a light tomato soup that complements the creamy, savory filling. For heartier occasions, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple pasta salad to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, arrange the spinach and ricotta rolls on a rustic wooden board or a colorful serving platter to showcase their golden crusts. You can serve them skewered with fresh herbs tucked in between pieces for easy grabbing. Another fun idea is to offer a trio of dips—like marinara, tzatziki, and pesto—for guests to customize their bites. Presentation adds an extra layer of fun and invites everyone to savor these special bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spinach and ricotta rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them chilled helps preserve the flaky texture of the pastry while maintaining the fresh, cheesy goodness inside. Just be sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these rolls later, they freeze beautifully. Prepare and roll them as directed but don’t bake yet. Arrange the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh-tasting results.
Reheating
To reheat, a quick bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes will bring back the crispiness and warm the filling through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy. If you have an air fryer, reheating there is a fantastic option to regain that lovely crunch in just a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and helps keep the rolls crisp and delectable.
What can I substitute for puff pastry?
If puff pastry isn’t available, you could use phyllo dough for a crispier texture or even crescent roll dough for a softer, buttery finish. Each will change the character a bit but works well with the ricotta and spinach filling.
Are these rolls suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe contains no meat, making it a delicious vegetarian option. Just be sure to check that the cheeses you use are made with vegetarian-friendly rennet.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
You can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free puff pastry. Many grocery stores now stock these, and they bake up just as nicely, allowing you to enjoy this dish without compromise.
How long do these rolls keep their crispiness?
They’re at their crispiest right after baking, but if stored properly and reheated in the oven or air fryer, they retain much of their crunch. Avoid covering them tightly while warm to prevent steam buildup.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe is like welcoming a warm hug in pastry form. Each bite offers the perfect mix of flaky, cheesy, and fresh flavors that can brighten any mealtime or celebration. Give it a try—you’ll soon find yourself reaching for these irresistible rolls again and again, sharing them with friends or savoring them as a special treat just for you.
Print
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious spinach and ricotta rolls made with a creamy cheese filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These savory bites are perfect as appetizers or snacks, offering a harmonious blend of melted cheeses, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic, baked to a golden crisp. You can prepare them either in the oven or using an air fryer for a quicker cooking option.
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 and prepare the baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté the garlic and spinach: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the baby spinach and cook until it is wilted and tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and one beaten egg. Add the chopped shallots or green onions, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the cooked spinach and garlic mixture until well combined.
- Prepare and fill the puff pastry: Roll out the sheet of puff pastry and cut it into rectangles. Spoon a portion of the spinach and cheese filling along one edge of each rectangle. Carefully roll the pastry tightly over the filling, enclosing it completely.
- Brush and garnish: Brush the tops of the rolled pastries with beaten egg to help them brown nicely in the oven. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired for added flavor and texture.
- Chill the rolls: Place the rolls in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up the pastry, which helps maintain shape during baking and slicing.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces: After chilling, remove the rolls from the refrigerator and cut them into bite-sized pieces, perfect for serving as finger foods.
- Bake until golden: Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Air fryer alternative: Alternatively, place the prepared rolls in an air fryer basket and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and fully cooked through. This method is quicker and yields a similarly crispy texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or any other melty cheese of your preference.
- Make sure to squeeze excess moisture out of the cooked spinach to avoid soggy pastry.
- If you don’t have shallots, green onions work equally well in this recipe.
- Refrigerating the rolls before baking helps them maintain shape and prevents filling from leaking.
- These rolls can be served warm or at room temperature and make a great party appetizer or snack.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
