Name: Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Napoli Sauce:; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1/2 onion, very finely diced; 800g / 24 oz crushed tomato (or diced); 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 cup water; 1 basil stem (leaves kept for the Malfatti); 1/2 tsp white sugar; 3/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Spinach for Malfatti:; 300g / 10oz baby spinach (~6 tightly packed cups); 1/2 tsp salt; Malfatti:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 eschallot (large), finely chopped (or 1/2 red onion); 500g / 1 lb ricotta (dry type, not wet and spreadable); 1/4 cup (lightly packed) basil leaves, finely sliced (use stem for sauce); 1 egg; 1 egg yolk; 1 cup parmesan, finely grated; 1/2 cup plain / all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Serving:; 1/4 cup parmesan, finely grated; Basil leaves, small (optional)

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Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings have a way of transporting me straight back to my Nonna’s kitchen, with the aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh herbs filling the air. These aren’t just any dumplings; they’re like little clouds of pure comfort. I remember my first attempt at making them, feeling a bit intimidated, but the process of creating these unique Italian spinach ricotta gnocchi turned out to be incredibly rewarding. The texture is so tender, and the combination of creamy ricotta, earthy spinach, and savory herbs is simply divine. If you’re looking for a truly satisfying homemade Italian dumplings spinach ricotta experience, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful dumplings! Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Incredible Flavor: The delicate balance of creamy ricotta, earthy spinach, and fresh herbs creates a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Quick & Easy Prep: Despite their elegant appearance, these are surprisingly easy Italian spinach ricotta dumplings to whip up, perfect for weeknights.
Light & Healthy: Packed with spinach and ricotta, they offer a lighter alternative to traditional pasta dishes without sacrificing flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, common ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet while delivering gourmet taste.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these tender, savory dumplings, making them a surefire hit at any family meal.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or a charming appetizer, these Italian spinach ricotta dumplings are always a crowd-pleaser.
Rewarding Homemade: There’s a special satisfaction in creating these easy Italian spinach ricotta dumplings from scratch.

Ingredients for Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Gather these simple ingredients for a taste of authentic Italian cooking!

Napoli Sauce Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing aromatics
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1/2 onion, very finely diced
800g / 24 oz crushed tomato – the base of our rich sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste – adds depth and intensity
1/2 cup water – to achieve the right sauce consistency
1 basil stem – infuses the sauce with fresh basil flavor
1/2 tsp white sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Spinach for Malfatti Ingredients

300g / 10oz baby spinach – about 6 tightly packed cups; it wilts down significantly. Like in a good spinach ricotta ravioli recipe, well-drained spinach is key!
1/2 tsp salt – to help draw out moisture

Malfatti Dough Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 large eschallot, finely chopped – or 1/2 red onion for a similar sweetness
500g / 1 lb ricotta (dry type, not wet and spreadable) – this is crucial for texture, similar to what you’d look for in a spinach ricotta ravioli recipe
1/4 cup (lightly packed) basil leaves, finely sliced – fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma
1 egg
1 egg yolk – adds richness and helps bind
1 cup parmesan, finely grated – for that salty, nutty flavor
1/2 cup plain / all-purpose flour – the binder for our dumplings
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Serving Ingredients

1/4 cup parmesan, finely grated – for topping
Small basil leaves, optional – for garnish

How to Make Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create these delightful Italian spinach ricotta dumplings from scratch.

Prepare the Napoli Sauce

Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add 2 garlic cloves, finely minced, and 1/2 onion, very finely diced. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 2: Stir in 800g / 24 oz crushed tomato, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1/2 cup water, and the 1 basil stem. Add 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp white sugar to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This simple Napoli sauce is the perfect base for our dumplings.

Prepare the Spinach

Step 4: In a large colander, toss 300g / 10oz baby spinach with 1/2 tsp salt. Let it sit for 20 minutes to allow the salt to draw out excess moisture.
Step 5: Roll the spinach tightly in a clean tea towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for how to make spinach ricotta dumplings that hold their shape. Roughly chop the squeezed spinach.

Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings: 1 Amazing Recipe - Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings - additional detail

Make the Malfatti Dough

Step 6: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cloves garlic, finely minced, and 1 large eschallot, finely chopped. Sauté for 1 minute until softened.
Step 7: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook briefly until just wilted. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl and let it cool completely.
Step 8: To the cooled spinach mixture, add 500g / 1 lb dry ricotta, 1/4 cup finely sliced basil leaves, 1 egg, 1 egg yolk, 1 cup finely grated parmesan, 1/2 cup plain flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a slightly wet but manageable dough.

Form the Dumplings

Step 9: Using two dessert spoons, scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the dough. Use the spoons to shape it into a quenelle, or a football shape. This is a simple technique for how to make spinach ricotta dumplings.
Step 10: Place the formed dumplings on a paper-lined tray. You should get about 24-30 of these delicious Italian spinach ricotta dumplings.

Cook the Dumplings

Step 11: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add about 6 dumplings at a time.
Step 12: Cook for 2 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess water.

Assemble and Bake

Step 13: Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F while the dumplings are cooking.
Step 14: Pour the prepared Napoli sauce into a baking dish. Arrange the boiled Malfatti dumplings evenly over the sauce.
Step 15: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the dumplings. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings have a lovely golden blush.

Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings: 1 Amazing Recipe - Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings - additional detail

Serve the Dumplings

Step 16: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan. Garnish with small basil leaves, if desired. Serve these Italian spinach ricotta dumplings immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Want to elevate your Italian spinach ricotta dumplings from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help you achieve perfect texture and flavor every time.

Drain, Drain, Drain: The most crucial step for these Italian spinach ricotta dumplings is super-dry ricotta and spinach. Squeeze out every last drop of moisture to ensure they hold their shape beautifully.
Gentle Mixing: Don’t overmix the dough! Treat it gently to keep the dumplings tender. Overworking it can lead to a tougher texture.
Rest the Dough: If you have time, letting the dough rest for 10-15 minutes can help it firm up slightly, making shaping even easier.
Season Generously: Taste your dough before forming the dumplings (if comfortable doing so with raw egg) or ensure your sauce and parmesan are well-seasoned, as the dumplings themselves are subtly flavored.

What’s the secret to perfect Italian spinach ricotta dumplings?

The real secret lies in the dryness of your ricotta and spinach. Excess moisture is the enemy of good dumplings. If you can achieve a consistency similar to that of an authentic Italian spinach ricotta ravioli filling, you’re golden.

Can I make Italian spinach ricotta dumplings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can form the dumplings and store them on a parchment-lined tray in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian spinach ricotta dumplings?

The biggest pitfall is using wet ricotta or spinach, which makes the dough too soft. Also, don’t overcook them in boiling water; they only need a couple of minutes until they float. This ensures they bake up perfectly.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

These tender dumplings are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of simple sides. For a classic Italian experience, I love serving them as a main course with a light, crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the dumplings perfectly. You could also serve them as an elegant appetizer. If you’re looking for the best Italian ricotta spinach pasta pairings, consider a light butter and sage sauce or a simple garlic and olive oil drizzle instead of the baked Napoli sauce for a different take. For a similar pasta dish, try our spaghetti with mushroom sauce.

Nutrition Facts for Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for these delightful Italian spinach ricotta dumplings, per serving. This information helps you understand what you’re enjoying in this delicious Italian ricotta spinach pasta dish.

Calories: 420 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 650 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

Once these delicious Italian spinach ricotta dumplings have cooled completely, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. For the best results, place the cooled dumplings in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this delightful spinach ricotta stuffed pasta Italian dish for longer, freezing is a great option! Arrange the cooled dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few easy options. If refrigerated, you can gently place them in your prepared sauce and warm them through on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated. If reheating from frozen, add them directly to a simmering sauce and cook until warmed through, or bake them as directed in the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings

What are Italian spinach ricotta dumplings?

These delightful dumplings are a rustic Italian specialty, often called Malfatti, meaning “badly made” in Italian because of their irregular shape. They are tender, savory morsels made primarily from ricotta cheese, finely chopped spinach, herbs, and a touch of flour and egg, creating a light yet satisfying pasta experience. They’re a wonderful alternative to traditional pasta shapes. For more pasta inspiration, check out our pappardelle with beef ragu.

Can I use regular ricotta cheese instead of dry ricotta?

While you can use regular ricotta, it’s highly recommended to use a drier, firmer ricotta for your Italian spinach ricotta dumplings. If your ricotta is very wet, you’ll need to drain it thoroughly first. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial to ensure your dumplings hold their shape and don’t become too mushy, similar to how you’d prepare ricotta for an authentic Italian spinach ricotta ravioli. You can find more tips on ingredient preparation in our article on onions.

How can I tell if my Italian spinach ricotta dumplings are cooked properly?

When you boil the dumplings, they are ready once they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2 minutes. Don’t overcook them at this stage, as they will also be baked in the sauce, which further cooks them. Watching them float is your cue to gently scoop them out with a slotted spoon.

Are there other ways to serve these dumplings besides baking?

Absolutely! While baking in Napoli sauce is a classic and delicious method, you can also serve these Italian spinach ricotta dumplings simply tossed with browned butter and sage, or with a light pesto sauce. They are a versatile base for many Italian flavors, making them a wonderful representation of spinach ricotta stuffed pasta Italian cooking. For a simple yet flavorful pasta, consider our spaghetti with garlic and oil.

Variations of Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings You Can Try

While this baked Napoli sauce version is fantastic, don’t be afraid to play around with this versatile spinach and ricotta Italian dumpling recipe! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Lemon Zest & Herb Boost: For a brighter flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the Malfatti dough. You can also swap some of the basil for fresh parsley or chives for a different herbaceous note.
Brown Butter Sage: Skip the Napoli sauce and bake. Instead, serve the boiled dumplings tossed in a simple sauce of browned butter infused with fresh sage leaves. It’s a lighter, nuttier alternative that highlights the delicate flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free spinach and ricotta Italian dumpling recipe, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for binding.
Mini Dumpling Bites: Make smaller dumplings, about half the size, and serve them as an appetizer. They cook faster and are perfect for little bites at a party.