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Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce
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Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce is a comforting Italian dish featuring soft, tender dumplings made from creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, served in a vibrant homemade Napoli tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. This recipe balances freshness and richness, delivering a nutritious, flavorful meal perfect as a vegetarian main or a side dish.

Ingredients

Dumplings

  • Fresh spinach – 200g (7 oz)
  • Ricotta cheese – 250g (9 oz)
  • Egg – 1 large, beaten
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – 50g (1/2 cup)
  • Flour or fine breadcrumbs – 100g (3/4 cup), plus extra for dusting
  • Salt – 1/2 tsp
  • Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 tsp

Napoli Sauce

  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves – 2, minced
  • Onion – 1 small, finely chopped
  • Fresh or canned ripe tomatoes – 400g (14 oz) crushed or chopped
  • Salt – to taste (about 1 tsp)
  • Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves – a handful, torn

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Wash the spinach thoroughly. Blanch it quickly in boiling water for about one minute until wilted. Drain well and squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Chop finely and set aside to prevent soggy dumplings.
  2. Mix the Dumpling Dough: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Gradually add flour or breadcrumbs until a soft, workable dough forms that holds together without being sticky.
  3. Shape the Dumplings: Using your hands or a spoon, form small dumplings about the size of a walnut. Place them on a lightly floured surface or tray to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.
  4. Make the Napoli Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking gently until translucent and fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and torn basil leaves. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and flavorful.
  5. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop dumplings in batches, cooking until they float to the surface, about 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly into the simmering Napoli sauce.
  6. Combine and Serve: Let the dumplings soak in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese and fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Drain spinach thoroughly to prevent soggy dumplings.
  • Mix dough just until combined to keep dumplings tender and light.
  • Simmer Napoli sauce low and slow to develop rich, sweet flavor.
  • Cook dumplings gently at a gentle boil to prevent them from breaking.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil to lift the sauce’s aroma and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach dumplings, ricotta dumplings, Napoli sauce, Italian recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free option, homemade tomato sauce, comfort food

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/spinach-ricotta-dumplings-in-napoli-sauce/