Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe
Introduction
Spinach Ricotta Bites are a delicious and easy appetizer that everyone will love. These bite-sized treats combine creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, making them perfect for parties or a simple snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix thoroughly.
- Step 3: Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs to the mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. If needed, add more breadcrumbs for consistency.
- Step 4: Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter). Coat each ball in additional breadcrumbs for an even crust.
- Step 5: Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart, and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Step 6: Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Serve warm, optionally with marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach can be used if well-drained.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed nuts.
- Serve with a side of marinara or garlic aioli to enhance the taste.
Storage
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. They can also be frozen before baking; thaw completely before baking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the bites ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated before baking or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I bake these without rolling them into balls?
While baking as balls gives the best crispy texture, you can also bake spoonfuls of the mixture as small patties, although the cooking time may vary slightly.
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Spinach Ricotta Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20–24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spinach Ricotta Bites are delightful, bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or snacks. These savory morsels combine creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic and spices, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. Crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful center, they are easy to prepare and make a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bites from sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, finely chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Stir in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet or loose, add more breadcrumbs gradually until you reach a workable consistency.
- Form Bites: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Then, coat each ball thoroughly with additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
- Arrange and Spray: Place the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to promote browning and crispness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the bites to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and develop a crispy crust.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bites cool slightly. Serve them warm, optionally with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Serve with a marinara or ranch dip for extra taste.
- Adjust garlic powder and seasoning to taste for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Bites, appetizer, party snacks, baked ricotta bites, vegetarian appetizers, finger foods, Italian appetizers
