Appetizer > Italian > Frico

Frico Balacia with Spinach and Ricotta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Special equipment needed:
- Non-stick skillet

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add a handful of the cheese mixture to the skillet, forming a circle.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
5. Add a spoonful of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of chopped spinach to one half of the cheese circle.
6. Use a spatula to fold the other half of the cheese circle over the spinach and ricotta filling.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is crispy and golden brown.
8. Use the spatula to transfer the frico balacia to a plate.
9. Repeat steps 3-8 with the remaining cheese mixture and filling.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat per serving: 22g
Carbohydrates per serving: 5g
Protein per serving: 17g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained.
- Instead of ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or goat cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the spinach and ricotta filling for a meatier version.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling for added flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use a non-stick skillet to prevent the cheese from sticking.
- Use a spatula to carefully flip the frico balacia over to cook the other side.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still crispy.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover frico balacia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the frico balacia in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the frico balacia on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for added color and texture.

Garnishes:
Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is sticking to the skillet, make sure to use a non-stick skillet and add more oil if needed.
- If the frico balacia is falling apart, make sure to cook it long enough to allow the cheese to melt and hold the filling together.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the frico balacia to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Frico balacia is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. It is made with shredded cheese that is melted in a skillet and filled with various ingredients, such as spinach and ricotta.

Flavor profiles:
Frico balacia is a savory dish that is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. The combination of melted cheese, spinach, and ricotta creates a rich and flavorful filling.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the frico balacia as an appetizer or main dish for a delicious and satisfying meal.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Crispy, Savory, Creamy, Nutty, Tangy