Italian > Antipasti > Vegetarian

Spinach and Ricotta Fritelli Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Frying pan
- Slotted spoon

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, and egg to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a tablespoon, scoop the batter and drop it into the hot oil. Repeat until the pan is full but not overcrowded.
5. Fry the fritelli for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritelli from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
7. Repeat until all the batter is used up.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for frying
Serving size:
Makes about 12 fritelli

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 100
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
- Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach.
- Pecorino Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the batter for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs such as basil or oregano instead of black pepper.
- Make mini fritelli by using a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon to scoop the batter.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritelli to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the pan, or the fritelli will not cook properly.
- Serve the fritelli immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.

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

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the fritelli in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the fritelli on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Garnishes:
Garnish the fritelli with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.

Pairings:
Pair the fritelli with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus with garlic and Parmesan cheese
- Grilled zucchini with balsamic glaze

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the fritelli are not crispy, the oil may not be hot enough or the fritelli may be overcrowded in the pan.

Food safety advice:
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches a temperature of 350°F before frying.
- Do not leave the hot oil unattended while frying.

Food history:
Fritelli are a traditional Italian snack that originated in the region of Tuscany. They are typically made with flour, eggs, and cheese and are fried until crispy.

Flavor profiles:
The fritelli are savory and cheesy with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the fritelli as an appetizer or snack.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Creamy, Cheesy, Nutty, Earthy