Spinach roll

Spinach Roll: a delicious and elegant recipe

If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, spinach roll is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only colorful and flavorful, but it also adds a touch of elegance to your table, making it ideal for festive meals as well as for a regular dinner. The spinach roll combines fine textures and delicious aromas, and preparing it is a true pleasure. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to achieve this delicacy!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Basic ingredients:

For the spinach dough:
- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen if fresh is not available)
- 3 large eggs
- 100 ml milk
- 100 g butter
- 50 g flour
- salt and pepper to taste

For the filling:
- 150 g ham (preferably smoked for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g cottage cheese (or ricotta, depending on preferences)
- 2-3 tablespoons cream cheese (Hochland or another preferred brand)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- spices to taste (dill, basil, or oregano are excellent options)

Preparing the spinach roll:

1. Preparing the béchamel sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden. This step helps eliminate the raw flour taste.

2. Adding the milk:
Start adding the milk gradually, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens, but make sure it doesn’t become too dense. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Preparing the spinach:
If using fresh spinach, wash it well and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain it and chop it finely. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain it well of excess water.

4. Combining the ingredients:
Once the béchamel sauce has cooled slightly, add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, fold in the beaten egg whites gently to avoid losing air.

5. Baking:
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour the spinach mixture evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes, or until the roll is lightly golden and pulls away from the edges of the tray.

6. Rolling and cooling:
Once done, remove the roll from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes, then turn it out onto a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Gently roll the roll using the paper, forming a log, and let it cool completely.

Preparing the filling:

1. Mixing the ingredients:
In a bowl, chop the ham into small cubes and add the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. You can add your favorite spices to enhance the flavor of the filling.

2. Filling the roll:
When the roll has cooled completely, gently unroll it and spread the cheese filling evenly. Carefully roll the roll again, using the parchment paper to help it maintain its shape. Wrap the roll in aluminum foil and place it in the fridge for a few hours, or ideally overnight, to firm up well.

Serving and suggestions:

The spinach roll can be served either as an elegant appetizer or as a main course alongside a fresh salad. A personal recommendation is to pair it with a tomato and cucumber salad, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, for a delicious contrast of flavors. Also, a bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and calcium, playing an important role in maintaining bone health and the immune system. Cottage cheese and ricotta contribute to protein and calcium intake, being essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a great option. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. What is the best type of cheese for the filling?
Besides cottage cheese, you can use feta or ricotta for a different flavor.

3. How can I customize the roll?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling or experiment with different types of cheese.

4. How long can the roll be kept in the fridge?
The roll keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.

I encourage you to try this spinach roll recipe, enjoy it with your loved ones, and customize it to your taste. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!

 Ingredients: 500 g spinach, 3 eggs, 100 ml milk, 100 g butter, 50 g flour, 150 g ham, 200 g cottage cheese, 2-3 tbsp Hochland cream cheese, 2 tbsp sour cream, salt, pepper