Tuscan Spinach Ricotta Meatballs are a delightful Italianinspired dish that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. These meatballs are a perfect blend of ground beef, ricotta, and fresh spinach, providing a unique twist on traditional meatballs while keeping them light and flavorful.
Ingredients:
To prepare these delicious meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork for added flavor)
1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italianstyle preferred)
Olive oil for frying
Marinara sauce for serving
Preparation:
1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring that the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
2. Form the Meatballs: With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. This recipe should yield around 24 meatballs.
3. Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them on all sides until golden brown, which should take about 10 minutes. You can also bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 2025 minutes for a healthier option.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them in a pot with warm marinara sauce. Allow them to simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve them over spaghetti or on their own, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Perfect Pairings:
Tuscan Spinach Ricotta Meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. For a complete Italian meal, consider serving with a glass of Chianti or another fullbodied red wine, which complements the richness of the meatballs beautifully.
Flavor Profile:
These meatballs are an exquisite combination of savory and creamy flavors. The ricotta offers a subtle richness, while the spinach adds freshness, balancing the heartiness of the beef. The dish embodies the essence of Italian cuisine: comforting, flavorful, and made from simple yet highquality ingredients.
Elevate your dinner routines by introducing Tuscan Spinach Ricotta Meatballs, a dish that delights the palate and warms the heart. Enjoy every mouthful of this exquisite Italian creation!