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Italian Fried Spinach and Cheese Croquettes


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  • Author: Filippo Trapella
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Makes 20 1x
  • Diet: Omnivore

Description

Crispy, cheesy croquettes with a vibrant spinach filling. Perfect for parties or a fun weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs (907 g) fresh spinach
  • 1/2 lbs (227 g) Ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cups (50 g) Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
  • 4 eggs
  • 14 tbsp (110 g) all propose flour
  • 10 tbsp Panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups (473 ml) sunflower oil
  • 2 pinches nutmeg (grated)
  • 10 leaves fresh sage
  • 2 pinches black pepper
  • table salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse the spinach leaves thoroughly and cook them for 5 minutes in boiling water, then immediately transfer to iced water to stop cooking and preserve color. Squeeze out excess water and mince the spinach.

For the Soup

  1. Combine spinach, ricotta, 2 eggs, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, 7 tbsp flour, 2 pinches nutmeg, 2 pinches black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Whisk and knead until consistent, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours.
  2. Divide the spinach and cheese dough into 20 equal parts and shape into balls.
  3. Prepare three bowls: one with 7 tbsp flour, one with 2 whisked eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Flour the spinach and cheese balls, shaking off excess flour. Dip the balls in the egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat sunflower oil in a pot to 345°F (175°C). Fry the gnudi until golden and crispy, a few at a time, removing with a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels and serve with your preferred sauces.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk ricotta cheese.
  • To prevent the croquettes from becoming soggy, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
  • Leftover croquettes can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months; reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Deep-Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 croquette
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 200
  • Fat: 10
  • Saturated Fat: 4
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 5
  • Cholesterol: 50