Ingredients
15 ounces (about 2 cups) whole milk ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
10 ounces fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry (or 10 ounces frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil, for greasing dish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a small (approx. 8x8 inch) baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Step 2: If using fresh spinach, heat a large pan over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a colander and, once cool enough to handle, squeeze out as much liquid as possible. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze very dry.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped fresh basil, fresh parsley, and dried oregano.
Step 4: Add the thoroughly drained spinach to the ricotta mixture. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Step 5: Gently fold all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Pour the ricotta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
Step 8: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For best results, use fresh, whole milk ricotta and drain any excess liquid thoroughly from both the ricotta and spinach to ensure a creamy, firm texture. This dish is wonderful served with crusty bread or a light side salad. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg