Italian > Antipasti > Michettas

Michetta with Spinach and Ricotta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Skillet

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the vegetable oil and warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and pliable.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet.
4. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
5. Spread the ricotta cheese over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with the spinach mixture, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 4-6

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 437 kcal
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Protein: 14 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour
- Vegetable oil: olive oil or coconut oil
- Ricotta cheese: cottage cheese or cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese: Asiago cheese or Pecorino cheese
- Mozzarella cheese: cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese

Variations:
- Add cooked sausage or bacon to the filling
- Use different herbs such as oregano, thyme, or basil
- Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini

Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier crust, brush the top of the dough with olive oil before baking.
- To make the dough easier to roll out, let it rest for 10 minutes before rolling.

Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the Michetta with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Garnishes:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Pairings:
Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Green salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the crust is not browning, increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
Always store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat before eating.

Food History:
Michetta is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the region of Abruzzo. It is typically made with a thin crust and filled with cheese, spinach, and other ingredients.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with hints of garlic and red pepper flakes. The cheese adds a creamy texture and the spinach adds a hint of bitterness.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Creamy, Rich, Tangy, Nutty