These spinach and cheese bread dumplings are a delicious and unique dish, perfect for a cozy meal. Filled with creamy fontina cheese and served with a sage butter sauce, they are sure to impress.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups crusty bread, for approximately 1 ½ cups of breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 8 oz cooked spinach
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 6 oz fontina cheese, cubed
- Flour, for dusting
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 10 sage leaves
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Shredded Parmesan, for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, 1/4 cup olive oil, egg, salt, and milk. Mix until it forms a dough that sticks together.
- Form the Dumplings:
- Divide the dough into balls. Take one ball, flatten it, and place a cube of fontina cheese in the center. Wrap the dough around the cheese to form a dumpling. Dust each dumpling with flour and set aside. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
- Cook the Dumplings:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the bread dumplings in the boiling water until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and set aside.
- Brown the Dumplings:
- In a large pan, heat 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bread dumplings to the pan and cook until they are golden brown on all sides.
- Add Butter and Sage:
- Add the butter and sage leaves to the pan with the bread dumplings. Toss to coat the dumplings in the butter and sage.
- Make the Sauce:
- Plate the bread dumplings and keep them warm. In the same pan with the butter and sage, carefully add the balsamic vinegar and remove from heat.
- Serve:
- Spoon the balsamic butter sage sauce over the bread dumplings.
- Garnish the bread dumplings with shredded Parmesan and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of mixed green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light soup or broth for a comforting and hearty dinner.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing accompaniment.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the bread you use is crusty and dry enough to form good breadcrumbs. Stale bread works best.
- Be gentle when forming the dumplings to prevent them from falling apart.
- Use fresh spinach and blanch it briefly before adding it to the dough for a fresher taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach: High in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Eggs: A good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (substitute with gluten-free bread if needed)
- Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free cheese and milk substitutes if needed)
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a unique and flavorful dish that’s different from your usual meals.
- Combines the creaminess of cheese with the freshness of spinach and the richness of a sage butter sauce.
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal at home.
Conclusion:
These spinach and cheese bread dumplings are a delightful addition to your recipe collection. Their unique flavor combination and hearty texture make them a standout dish for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting taste and satisfying richness of this wonderful meal!