How to Make Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of fresh, vibrant flavors, you have to try Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce. This Italian classic combines pillowy, tender dumplings made from creamy ricotta and nutrient-rich spinach with a bright, homemade Napoli sauce that’s bursting with ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Easy to prepare but truly impressive, this dish brings a restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A delightful texture: The dumplings are soft and light, creating a perfect contrast with the robust Napoli sauce.
• Fresh and healthy: Packed with fresh spinach and ricotta, it’s a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Simple ingredients: Made primarily with pantry staples and fresh produce, making it both accessible and delicious.
• Versatile dish: Works wonderfully as a vegetarian main course or an impressive side alongside grilled meats.
• Family-friendly comfort: Loved by children and adults alike because of its creamy, mellow flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in taste and texture. From the creamy ricotta giving the dumplings their softness to the vibrant Napoli sauce made from fresh tomatoes, every component is essential.

• Fresh spinach: Provides color, nutrients, and a subtle earthiness to the dumplings.
• Ricotta cheese: The creamy base that keeps the dumplings light and tender.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients ensuring the dumplings hold together well.
• Grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, umami depth enhancing the overall flavor.
• Flour or breadcrumbs: Helps give structure to the dumplings without making them heavy.
• Garlic and onion: Essential aromatics in the Napoli sauce to build rich flavor layers.
• Fresh or canned tomatoes: The heart of the Napoli sauce, offering sweetness and acidity.
• Olive oil: Adds silky richness both in the sauce and for sautéing.
• Fresh basil: Brings brightness and a fragrant finish to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To balance flavors perfectly in both dumplings and sauce.

Variations for Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

One of the best parts of this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you want to adjust for dietary preferences or experiment with extra flavors, it’s easy to make this dish your own.

• Gluten-free dumplings: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a safe swap.
• Vegan version: Use tofu or a vegan ricotta substitute, and replace the egg with a flax or chia seed binder.
• Herb-infused: Add fresh parsley or thyme to the dumpling mix for an herbal twist.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of chili flakes into the Napoli sauce for some heat.
• Cheese variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or sprinkle mozzarella on top for extra meltiness.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by washing the spinach well, then blanch it quickly in boiling water for about one minute until wilted. Drain thoroughly and squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Chop finely and set aside—this step ensures your dumplings won’t be soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Dumpling Dough

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, one beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add flour or fine breadcrumbs until the mixture forms a soft, workable dough that holds together without being sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Dumplings

Using your hands or a spoon, form small dumplings about the size of a walnut. Set them aside on a lightly floured surface or tray to prevent sticking as you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Napoli Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking gently until translucent and fragrant. Add crushed fresh or canned tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and torn fresh basil leaves. Let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and rich.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings in batches, cooking them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer directly into the simmering Napoli sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Encourage the dumplings to soak in the tomato sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavor. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese and fresh basil for that irresistible final touch.

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

• Drain spinach thoroughly: Excess water can make your dumplings fall apart or become soggy.
• Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined to keep dumplings tender and light.
• Simmer sauce low and slow: This develops the rich, sweet flavor essential to an authentic Napoli sauce.
• Cook dumplings gently: Keep water at a gentle boil to avoid breaking the dumplings while cooking.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil really lifts the sauce with its aromatic, peppery notes.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, along with torn fresh basil or parsley, adds beautiful color and an extra burst of flavor that complements the creamy dumplings and tangy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light mixed green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dumplings and Napoli sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dumplings in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few basil leaves scattered over the top. For a cozy dinner, add a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful Italian-inspired experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover dumplings and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting, making it perfect for next-day meals.

Freezing

To freeze, first flash freeze the shaped dumplings on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauce separately in portions for convenience.

Reheating

Reheat the dumplings gently in a pan over low heat with the Napoli sauce, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving directly as it tends to dry out the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach but make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the dumpling mixture to avoid sogginess.

What type of ricotta is best for dumplings?

Whole milk ricotta tends to be creamier and less watery than part-skim, making it ideal for richer, more tender dumplings.

Can I prepare the dumplings in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the dumplings a day ahead and keep them refrigerated, just cover well to prevent drying out before cooking.

Is Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce gluten-free?

The recipe can be gluten-free if you substitute regular flour or breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative suitable for cooking.

How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?

The dumplings are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water and remain there for about a minute, indicating they’re fully cooked through.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce are an absolute joy to make and eat—a perfect harmony of creamy, fresh, and tangy flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to brighten up any meal. Give it a try and savor every bite of this little slice of Italy right at home!

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