Easy homemade spinach crepes

Looking for a quick , easy and delicious healthy meal that’s perfect any time of the day ? These easy, homemade and quick spinach crepes are just what you need! Light , savory, and full of good for you spinach, these crepes come together in minutes and make a versatile base for your favorite fillings. I used them to make a lighter version of spinach manicotti- filled the crepes with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, placed them in a baking dish with my easy marinara sauce, topped them with shredded mozzarella and baked them until the cheese was bubbly and golden.

 Things to know about this Easy homemade spinach crepes recipe

These savory spinach crepes are easy to make! They take a little bit of time- you have to fry each one separately but other then that, they’re really easy to make. Crepes are nothing more than super thin pancakes, deliciously neutral in taste. It’s the fillings that make them savory or sweet.

If you want to make crepes into a lunch or dinner, what I do is make a rich ricotta and spinach filling and use these spinach crepes  instead of store-bought pasta tubes to make manicotti. I layer them in a baking dish with my easy marinara sauce and bake until bubbly and golden.  It’s a lighter, healthier version on the classic- delicious and perfect to make ahead of time , and bake when you’re ready to serve.

These easy homemade spinach crepes are a healthy alternative, they’re delicious and a versatile staple you’ll make over and over again. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, using them for manicotti, or filling them with whatever you have on hand, you’re going to love them!!! Try them with my easy marinara sauce and your favorite savory filling for a delicious easy dinner everyone will love. And if your looking for a more classic option, check out my plain crepes how to make homemade crepes -prefect for sweet or savory fillings. And what I used to make my delicious Italian crepe Manicotti with bechamel

Let me know how you used them- I’d love to hear what fillings you came up with, snap a picture and tag me on social media, I love to see your creations . It’s my favorite part!!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 1/2cups of flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 Tbsp. of butter
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the spinach by placing it a dry saute pan and cook until wilted ( 2-3 minutes) let cool, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
2. In a blender or food processer combine the spinach, eggs, milk and salt , blend until smooth.
3. Add the flour and pulse until combined. Don’t over mix. The consistency should be smooth and thin , similar to heavy cream. It should coat the back of a spoon. Then set the batter in the fridge to rest for at least 1 hour or overnight.
4. Heat an 8 inch non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Grease with a small amount of batter. Pour a small amount of batter( about 2 Tbsp.) into the pan and swirl to coat evenly. Cook each crepe 1-2 minutes per side. Greasing the pan with butter lightly before each crepe.
5. To store spinach crepes, allow them to cool completely before stacking and covering them tightly with plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for 2-3 days.  For freezing separate each cooled crepe with parchment paper, stack and wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in a freezer safe container. They will last in the freezer up to three months.
6. To reheat the frozen  spinach  crepes, thaw the crepes in the fridge, then warm them up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
7. Second,
8. And so on

Italian crepe manicotti with Bechamel

These Italian crepe manicotti with bechamel sauce are made with homemade crepes, filled with a ricotta and spinach filling before being  laid on a bed of marinara sauce. Then they are  topped with a  creamy bechamel sauce  and freshly grated mozzarella before being baked to a golden deliciousness.

The crepe recipe is the one I always use they’re soft, light and so easy to work with . Not to mention how easy they are to make. Of course you can use store-bought manicotti shells in this recipe. but why would you when homemade crepes tastes so good and are so easy to make.

Tips for this Italian crepe manicotti with bechamel recipe

A few tips: Let your crepes cool before filling so they don’t tear. Don’t overstuff – just a few spoonful of filling is perfect. A little bechamel goes a long way, just enough to coat the manicotti and bubble up around the edges. You can assemble the whole dish a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge-just bring it to room temp before baking. It also freezes beautifully, so it’s great for making ahead when you’re feeding a crowd or the holidays.

If you’ve never made manicotti with crepes , give it a try and tag me when you do. I love to see your creations. And trust me, once you taste these Italian crepe manicotti  you’ll never reach for the store-bought shells. ENJOY!!!!

Ingredients

12 crepes from my How to make homemade crepes

3 cups your favorite marinara or  my easy marinara sauce

FOR THE FILLING:

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella divided 1 cup for the filling and 1 cup to top the manicotti before baking.

1/2 cup parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 cup blanched spinach or Swiss chard, squeezed dry and chopped

salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

In a bowl mix together ricotta, parmesan cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarellas, egg, spinach or chard. Season with salt and pepper to taste set aside

Ingredients: FOR  the EASY BECHAMEL SAUCE

• 1/2 stick of butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 1/2 cups of whole milk
• pinch of nutmeg
• salt and pepper to taste
• INSTRUCTIONS
• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium high heat
• Whisk in the flour and cook 1-2 minutes stirring . Gradually whisk in the milk a little at a time , stirring continually. Cook 5-6 minutes until the bechamel sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with salt and nutmeg.
• Assemble the crepes : Preheat your oven to 375-degrees.
• Place 1-2 generous Tablespoon of the ricotta, spinach filling in the center from end to end of the manicotti. Roll them up like a jelly roll. Repeat with remaining crepes.
• In an oven proof lasagna pan add the 3 cups of my easy marinara sauce. Place the filled manicotti on top of the red sauce, top with the béchamel sauce. Add the remaining shredded mozzarella and bake covered for 30- 35 minutes . Remove the cover the last 15 minutes. ENJOY!!!!

Spaghetti frittata Easter pie

If you’ve never had Spaghetti frittata Easter pie you’re missing out on one of the best Italian traditions.  Spaghetti  pie may not be a dish your familiar with, but it’s one you should try. This delicious meal takes traditional spaghetti and turns it into a savory pie. Spaghetti pie, often made with a filling of cooked pasta, cheese, eggs and sometimes cured meats is a dish that many Italian -Catholic families traditionally prepare and eat around Easter.

The pie is often made on the day before Easter and served at noon to signify the end of Lent and the breaking of the fast. I usually make this spaghetti pie each year as it is a family traditional .

Variations for this Spaghetti frittata Easter pie

Here are three variations Of spaghetti frittata Easter pie, based on regional traditions.

1. Neapolitan: A classic from Naples, this version is often made with leftover pasta and a mix of Pecorino Romano and parmesan. Some families add a touch of tomato sauce for color and extra flavor.
2. Southern Italy : In Calabria and Sicily, this dish might include a mix of cured meats like soppressata , capicola, along with a generous amount of cheeses . I am using this version in this recipe.
3. Ricotta and sausage Easter pie: A richer version found  in some Italian -American kitchens, this variation swaps salami for crumbled Italian sausage and adds ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.

Each of these versions is delicious and carries a special tradition to who ever makes it. Spaghetti frittata Easter pie is an easy way to bring a little bit of Italian tradition to your table. Serve it warm, room temperature , or straight from the fridge-it’s delicious no matter what and it’s perfect any time of the year . ENJOY! And please leave me a comment on your experience with this recipe. I love hearing from you!!!THANKS

Ingredients

• 12 oz. cooked spaghetti
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated pecorino Romano or parmesan
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup diced provolone
• 1 cup diced salami
• 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the pasta al dente in boiling salted water, drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl whisk the eggs then add in the rest of the  ingredients, spaghetti mozzarella, parmesan, provolone, parsley and salami. Salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
3. In a 10 inch saute pan over medium high heat add the 2 Tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot add the spaghetti mixture, cover, lower the heat to low cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Put a plate over the skillet and flip the pasta pie , slide it back into the pan cover and cook 10 minutes remove the cover the last 5 minutes.
4. Let rest before slicing. Can be served at room temperature or hot. ENJOY!!!!

Creamy lemon parmesan zucchini orzo

If your looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s full of fresh flavors, this creamy lemon parmesan zucchini orzo is just what you need. Made entirely in one pan, it’s a fuss-free dish that’s perfect for busy worknights or when your craving something comforting without the cleanup. the orzo soaks up a velvety lemon parmesan sauce, and the zucchini adds a fresh heathy touch.

Serve it as a light vegetarian main , ( if you use vegetable stock) or pair it with my rosemary garlic seared lambchops for a complete restaurant quality meal. Or with my Quick And EASY Chicken Francese for a spring time complete meal everyone will love. Also a delicious addition to grilled chicken, shrimp or fish for an easy elegant meal. It’s creamy texture and bright citrus flavor also make it a delicious side dish for gatherings, adding color and flavor to your table. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s guaranteed to keep them coming back for more.

Switch up this creamy lemon parmesan zucchini orzo

What to switch things up? Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp or seared scallops for a flavor boost. For extra veggies, toss in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes or peas. If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a spicy kick. You can even swap out the zucchini for asparagus, broccoli, or whatever is in season. The possibilities are endless, making this one -pan creamy lemon parmesan zucchini orzo your go-to for easy , adaptable meals. With just one pan and minimal effort, you can have a meal that feels special yet easy enough for any day of the week. This orzo recipe is a perfect side dish too along side my rosemary garlic seared lambchops for a complete restaurant quality meal. Or with my Quick And EASY Chicken Francese for a spring time complete meal everyone will love. Give it a try and let me know in the comments what variation you tried and tag me on social media, I love seeing your creations and it helps others. THANKS!!!!

Ingredients

• 4 cups orzo
• 2 medium zucchini cleaned and cut into dice
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 Tbsp.  butter
• 1 cup chopped red or yellow onion
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 cup white wine
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• juice from 1 lemon
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley

Instructions

1. In a large saute pan over medium high heat in the olive oil and butter saute the onion and garlic until soft and translucent
2. Add the orzo to the pan and cook for a few minutes to toast. (2-3 minutes) then deglaze the pan with the wine. After the wine has been absorbed add the stock and cream cook until sauce begins to thicken ( about 5 minutes) add in the zucchini and parmesan cheese and cook 5 minutes longer.
3. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and the Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!!

Sicilian eggplant caponata rigatoni

Growing up, my mother would make eggplant caponata every summer using farm-fresh produce straight from our garden. The glossy purple eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil were transformed into a vibrant delicious caponata- a sweet tangy Italian relish. While caponata is traditionally served as a side dish or antipasto, I love tossing it with rigatoni for a hearty  and satisfying pasta meal. Every bite is full of bold flavors of eggplant, olives, and capers , all simmer together in a rich tomato sauce. It’s  a delicious taste of summer and perfect way to cook with seasonal ingredients.

Delicious variations for Sicilian eggplant caponata rigatoni

1.  Meaty caponata Rigatoni: Add crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef for a heathier twist. Brown the meat along with the onions and garlic before adding the tomatoes and eggplant.
2. Seafood Caponata Rigatoni: For a coastal Italian touch, add sauteed shrimp or chunks of white fish like cod or halibut. These seafood compliments the briny capers and olives.
3. Creamy Caponata Rigatoni:  For a luxurious twist, stir in a cup of ricotta cheese  and 1/2 cup of heavy cream just before serving. This creates a velvety sauce that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the caponata.
4. Pasta Swap caponata: While rigatoni is perfect for holding on to the caponata sauce, you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes. Try penne, orecchiette, or even spaghetti for a different texture.

Sicilian eggplant caponata rigatoni is a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients, bringing a taste of Italy to your table. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the delicious variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let me know in the comments how you made it you own!!! Share your creations and tag me- I’d love to see your take on this Sicilian – inspired pasta. ENJOY!!!!

Ingredients

• 12 0z. rigatoni Pasta
• 1 medium eggplant cut into medium dice
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 tbsp. minced garlic
• 4 cups chopped tomatoes
• 3 cup my easy marinara sauce
• 1 cup pasta water
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. sugar
• 2 Tbsp. capers
• 1 cup pitted and  sliced green olives
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup torn basil leaves
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1.  In boiling salted water cook your pasta al dente
2. In a large saute pan over medium high heat in the olive oil  saute the onion and garlic until soft and translucent
3. Add the tomatoes and eggplant and cook until the tomatoes burst and the eggplant is tender.

mix the sugar with the vinegar and add to the eggplant mixture along with the capers, olives. pine nuts and  marinara sauce let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.

1. Toss the rigatoni in this delicious vegetarian eggplant , top with grated parmesan and shredded basil. ENJOY!!!!

Leeks peas and asparagus risotto

This leeks peas and asparagus risotto combines tender  leeks, crisp asparagus, sweet peas and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, zesty finish. Perfect for a light family dinner, a special brunch or simply celebrating the arrival of warmer days.

The leeks provide a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the freshness of peas and the earthy bite of asparagus. As the rice slowly absorbs the warm broth, it transforms into a luscious, creamy dish that feels both indulgent and light. The lemony finish lifts the flavors, making each bite a delightful reminder of spring’s arrival.

• Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this risotto is a versatile crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a comforting main course with a side of crusty bread, or pair it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more elaborate spread. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors will bring a touch of elegance to any meal.

Things to know about this leeks peas and asparagus risotto recipe

• Seasonal Ingredients: Fresh leeks, peas, and asparagus are at their peak in spring, making this risotto a celebration of the season.
• Creamy Comfort: The traditional Italian method of slowly adding broth ensures a luxuriously creamy texture without needing cream.
• Easy Elegance: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this risotto brings a touch of sophistication to your table.

Tips for the Perfect Risotto

• Use Warm Broth: Always keep your vegetable or chicken broth warm to maintain the cooking temperature of the rice.
• Stir Consistently: Stirring frequently helps release the starches from the rice, creating that creamy texture.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking for the perfect balance of flavors.

This leeks, peas, and asparagus risotto pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine and a side of crusty bread. It’s a delightful way to savor the fresh, bright flavors of spring. Give it a try and let the vibrant greens and creamy rice bring a bit of seasonal joy to your table.

Have you made this risotto? Share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media with your creations. I’d love to see how it turns out!

Buon Appetito! 🍋

Ingredients

• 2 cups Arborio rice
• 1 leek cleaned and sliced
• 1 cup trimmed and chopped asparagus
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 4 cups hot vegetable or chicken stock
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• Juice from 1 lemon
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Saute the leeks : heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the sliced leeks and saute until soft and fragrant.
2. Toast the rice: Stir in the Arborio rice and cook until lightly toasted 3-4 minutes
3. Deglaze the pan with the wine stirring until absorbed
4. Add the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. allow the broth to absorb before adding more.
5. After 15 minutes, stir in the asparagus and peas. Continue cooking until the rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Remove from the heat , stir in the parmesan cheese , squeeze in the lemon juice and Italian parsley. ENJOY!!!

pasta de Santo  Giuseppe

This pasta de Santo Giuseppe has as many variations as there regions in Italy. The one mandatory ingredient in this classic Italian dish is toasted breadcrumbs instead of grated cheese. Santo Giuseppe was a carpenter, and the breadcrumbs represented sawdust.

This Italian pasta dish is easy and delicious and can be enjoyed year-round, but it holds special significance on March 19th, when Italians celebrate La Festa di San Giuseppe – Saint Joseph’s Day. While much of the world turns to Saint Patrick’s day on March 17th, Italians focus on honoring Saint Joseph , the patron saint of fathers, workers and the needy. Traditionally, this day is marked with meatless meals, as it falls during Lent. The toasted bread crumbs sprinkled on top symbolize the sawdust of Saint Joseph’s carpentry workshop, reminding us of his humble  and hardworking nature. Families across Italy , prepare festive tables known as St. Joseph’s alters, filled with breads, fava beans, and other symbolic foods, offering gratitude  for his protection and provision.

 Three variations for this Pasta de San Giuseppe

1. Sicilian sweet and savory: This variation combines the traditional pasta with anchovies, garlic, fennel, and toasted breadcrumbs sauteed in olive oil.
2. Southern Italian tomato -based ( my version): In some regions, the dish is prepared with a light tomato sauce, often featuring crushed San Marzano tomatoes, onions and garlic. This gives a slightly richer flavor while still maintaining the signature toasted breadcrumb topping.
3. Vegetarian lentil and fava bean: as a nod to Saint Joseph’s  role as a protector of the poor, some families incorporate lentils or fava beans – symbols of good fortune- into the dish. The beans add protein ad a hearty texture, making this version a complete, satisfying meal.          Pasta di Santo Giuseppe is more than just a dish, it’s a symbol of Italian heritage, faith and gratitude. Whether prepared with anchovies, tomatoes, or beans, the humble toasted bread crumbs remain a consent, reminding us of Saint Joseph’s humility and hard work. On March 19th, Italians gather to celebrate his legacy, honoring tradition through food, family and faith. No matter which variation you choose, this dish is a delicious way to connect to Italy’s deep-rooted culture and religious traditions.

Ingredients

• 12 oz. spaghetti
• 2 cups bread crumbs
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 4 anchovy fillets
• 2 Tbsp, hot red pepper flakes
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups my easy marinara sauce
• 1 cup pasta water

Instructions

1.  In a large pot of salted rapidly boiling water cook the spaghetti al dente.
2. In a saute pan in 1 Tbsp. of butter and 1 tbsp. of olive saute 1 Tbsp. of minced garlic until soft and  the bread crumbs and cook until the breadcrumbs are toasted and golden, remove from the fire add in the grated parmesan and 2 Tbsp. of freshly chopped Italian parsley and set aside,
3. In the same pan add the remaining 1 tbsp. of butter and olive oil add the remaining 1 tbsp. of minced garlic cook until soft and translucent, then add the cherry tomatoes cook until the tomatoes burst.
4. Add in the marinara and pasta water simmer until the sauce thickens about 15 minutes. Add some fresh torn basil leaves, then toss the spaghetti in the sauce.
5. Plate top with the breadcrumb mixture. ENJOY!!!!

Tomato piccata shrimp bucatini pasta

If your looking for an easy yet elegant seafood pasta dish, this tomato piccata shrimp bucatini pasta is a must -try. Featuring tender shrimp, a bright and tangy tomato piccata sauce and perfectly al dente bucatini, this recipe is packed with bold flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes.

With every forkful, you’ll experience a delicious blend of textures and flavors. The bucatini absorbs the garlicky , tomato sauce while maintaining  its signature al dente bite. The shrimp remain plump and juicy, and the capers add a briny pop that enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. The fresh basil ties everything together , making this dish feel like a restaurant- quality experience at home.

Why you’ll love this tomato piccata shrimp  bucatini pasta recipe

Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknights but fancy enough for entertaining.

Bright and tangy: Lemon, capers and tomatoes bring a zesty zing to the dish.

Rich and creamy: garlic and pasta water add depth and silkiness to the sauce.

Perfect pasta pairing: Bucatini’s hollow center holds the sauce for an irresistible bite.

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread for a delicious complete meal. If you make this tomato piccata shrimp bucatini pasta, let me know in the comments and please don’t forget to tag me on Instagram with your creations. I love hearing from you.

Ingredients

• 12 oz. bucatini pasta
• 1 lb. large shrimp ( 16-20 per lb.)peeled and deveined
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup reserved pasta water
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup drained capers
• 1/4 cup torn basil
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bucatini al dente. Reserve 2 cups pasta water before draining.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the tomatoes, red pepper, and garlic cook until the tomatoes burst and the garlic is soft and translucent. About 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze the pan with the wine waiting until fully absorbed before adding the chicken stock,  pasta water lemon juice and capers. Simmer until the sauce begins to thicken 7-10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp,  and cook 5 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through. Then add in the pasta, top with fresh basil.
5. Plate. ENJOY!!!

Caramelized onion pasta

If you love the deep, sweet-savory flavor of caramelized onions, this caramelized onion pasta is going to be your new go-to comfort dish!! Slow cooked onions, rich beef broth , and parmesan cheese come together to create a simple yet luxurious  pasta that taste like something you would order at your favorite Italian restaurant. The caramelized onions provide natural sweetness, balanced by the rich beef broth. You only need a handful of pantry ingredients to make this dish. And while the onions take time to cook, the process is mostly hands-off.

Pro tips for the best caramelized onion pasta

Low and slow is key- Cooking onions over low heat allows them to slowly develop their signature sweet , golden flavor.

Deglazing adds extra depth- the wine helps lift any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan, enriching the sauce.

Make it creamy- Stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or heavy cream for a richer texture.

Add protein- Crispy pancetta or shredded beef would be a delicious addition.

This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete delicious meal.

If you make this caramelized onion pasta, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! I’d love to see your creations, it’s my favorite part!!!

Ingredients

• 3 large onions thinly sliced
• 2 Tbsp. butter + 1 olive oil
• 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
• 1 tbsp. flour
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef broth ( vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian)
• 1/2 lb. medium size shells
• 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. in a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot heat the butter and olive oil over medium low heat. Add the onions with a pinch of salt and cook for 40 -45 stirring occasionally  minutes until deep golden brown.
2. Stir in the garlic and flour cook for 1 minute. Deglaze the pot with the wine waiting until it evaporates before adding the beef or vegetable stock .
3. Bring to a simmer and add the pasta . Cook until the pasta is el dente (7-8 minutes) add in the grated parmesan cheese and Italian parsley.
4. Ladle into pasta bowls. Top with additional grated parmesan . ENJOY!!!

Classic spinach ricotta Gnudi

If you love Italian food, you’ve probably heard of gnocchi- but have you ever tried gnudi? These delicate, ricotta – spinach based dumplings are a lesser -known Tuscan specialty, and they are as delicious as they are easy to make. Their name , “gnudi”, literally means “naked ” in Italian, as they are basically the filling of ravioli without the pasta shell. Light, pillowy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, gnudi are a must try for any pasta lover. Unlike gnocchi, which are made primarily with potatoes, gnudi are made with creamy ricotta, spinach and just enough flour to hold them together. The result is an incredibly tender bite far lighter than traditional pasta. Their delicate makes them perfect for absorbing rich sauces while still feeling light and airy.

Sauces for these classic spinach ricotta gnudi

One of the best things about gnudi is their versatility. They can be served with a variety of sauces.

My easy marinara sauce– a simple yet robust tomato sauce provides a bright contrast to the delicate dumplings.

Classic sage butter-Browned butter with crispy sage leaves enhances gnudi’s natural richness with a nutty aromatic flavor.

My Bolognese meat ragu– A slow- simmered hearty ragu transforms gnudi into a Tuscan comfort comfort dish that’s perfect for chilly nights.

Light and fresh- serve with sauteed greens, lemon zest , grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing twist.

Classic spinach ricotta gnudi are a delicious example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can create an extraordinary dish.  Their delicate yet satisfying taste makes them an irresistible option for any pasta lover looking to try something new.

Have you ever had gnudi before? What’s  your favorite sauce? Let me know in the comments below.

Ingredients

• 11/2 cups ricotta
• 4 cups clean spinach
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup flour + 1/2 cup for rolling
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1.  Clean and blanch the spinach in salted water. Let cool slightly then chop . Place in a colander over a bowl. Let sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to drain . Then use your hands to  squeeze out as much of the liquid as possible.
2. In a bowl,  wisk the egg then mix the in the ricotta, spinach, and grated parmesan, slowly add the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms  . Salt and pepper to taste.
3. With lightly floured hands roll the gnudi into balls roll in flour.
4. In a medium stock pot bring salted water to a gentle boil. Cook the gnudi in in batches until they float 2-3 minutes
5. Toss with my easy marinara sauce or sage butter. Top with additional grated parmesan and serve immediately. ENJOY!!!