Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and chopped basil.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
4. Add the egg mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Add the flour mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until just combined.
7. Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 210
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 420mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 13g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use different herbs such as oregano or thyme instead of basil.
- Add cooked crumbled sausage or bacon for a meatier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the spinach before adding it to the mixture.
- Use a whisk to combine the ingredients for a smoother texture.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow it to set.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pie on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus with garlic and lemon
- Grilled zucchini with Parmesan cheese
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pie is too watery, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the spinach and cheese before mixing.
- If the pie is too dry, add a splash of milk to the mixture before baking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the pie to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Ricotta cheese has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. It is made from the whey that is left over from the production of other cheeses.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, savory, and slightly nutty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: Italian