Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and it’s also the best opportunity to nourish yourself with healthy, satisfying foods that give you energy for the day ahead. But finding a recipe that is both nutritious and indulgent can be a challenge. That’s where these Spinach Pancakes with Ricotta Filling come in. This dish is a perfect balance of savory flavors and light textures, offering a delicious twist on the traditional pancake breakfast.

Packed with nutritious spinach, which is high in iron, vitamins, and minerals, these pancakes are a great way to sneak in some greens into your meal. The addition of ricotta cheese as a filling gives a creamy, slightly sweet richness that complements the spinach perfectly. The pancakes themselves are light and fluffy, yet satisfying, and they come together quickly and easily, making them ideal for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.

Whether you’re looking for a way to add more greens to your diet, or you simply love the idea of savory pancakes, this recipe is a must-try. Not only is it simple to make, but it’s also versatile—perfect for serving at a family breakfast, a weekend brunch with friends, or even as a light dinner. Plus, it’s customizable: you can adjust the amount of spinach and ricotta to suit your taste, or swap in different cheeses or fillings if you prefer.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its nutritional value but also in the balance of flavors. The mildness of the spinach and ricotta filling is elevated by the lightness of the pancakes, and the rich texture of the ricotta adds a satisfying creaminess. Whether you top them with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of herbs, or a side of fresh tomatoes, these pancakes are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into this healthy yet indulgent recipe that brings together the best of both worlds.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter:

• Milk: 250g (approx. 1 cup)
• Egg: 1 large
• Salt: To taste
• Spinach: 70g (approx. 1 cup packed)
• Flour: 90-100g (approx. 3/4 cup)
• Avocado Oil: 10 ml (approx. 2 teaspoons), plus extra for frying

For the Filling:

• Ricotta Cheese: To taste (approx. 1/2 cup or as desired)

Steps to Make Spinach Pancakes with Ricotta Filling

1. Prepare the Spinach Pancake Batter

1. Start by washing the spinach thoroughly. Then, chop the spinach into small pieces.
2. Heat a small pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the spinach for 1-2 minutes until it’s wilted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the milk, egg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour to the milk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue adding flour until the batter is smooth and thick, similar to a traditional pancake batter.
5. Stir in the cooked spinach into the batter, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
6. Let the pancake batter rest for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

1. While the batter rests, place the ricotta cheese in a small bowl.
2. If desired, season the ricotta with a pinch of salt or any herbs you like (such as dried oregano or fresh basil). You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness, although this is optional. Stir the ricotta until smooth and creamy.
3. Set the ricotta mixture aside until ready to use.

3. Cook the Spinach Pancakes

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of avocado oil to the pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Once the pan is hot, pour a small ladleful of the pancake batter into the pan. Tilt the pan to spread the batter into a thin, even circle.
3. Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until the edges start to lift and bubbles form on the surface.
4. Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
5. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

4. Assemble the Pancakes

1. Once all the pancakes are cooked, place them on a plate.
2. Spoon a generous amount of ricotta filling onto one side of each pancake.
3. Fold the pancake over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
4. You can serve the pancakes as is or drizzle with extra olive oil, sprinkle with fresh herbs, or serve with a side of tomato slices or a light salad.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This recipe for Spinach Pancakes with Ricotta Filling has remained popular over the years due to its perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and versatility. Pancakes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory forms. These savory pancakes, however, stand out because of their unique combination of wholesome spinach and creamy ricotta cheese. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any meal. Paired with ricotta, which provides calcium and protein, these pancakes are a nutrient-packed choice that will leave you feeling satisfied without the heaviness of traditional breakfast foods.

The simplicity of the ingredients makes this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels, yet the flavor combination is anything but simple. The slight bitterness of the spinach contrasts beautifully with the mild creaminess of the ricotta filling, creating a balanced flavor profile. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as a light dinner, these pancakes are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. Additionally, the fact that you can customize the filling to your liking (adding herbs, lemon zest, or even a dollop of sour cream) ensures that this dish will never get boring. It’s a modern, healthier take on the classic pancake that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used instead of fresh spinach. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the batter.

2. Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! You can fill these pancakes with a variety of other fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms, goat cheese, or even grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.

3. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions, as some may require additional binding agents.

4. How do I store leftover pancakes?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving. The ricotta filling will keep its creamy texture when reheated.

Tips for Making the Best Spinach Pancakes with Ricotta Filling

1. Rest the Batter: Allowing the pancake batter to rest for 5-10 minutes helps it thicken and results in fluffier pancakes.
2. Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the pancakes the best flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture.
3. Cook on Medium Heat: Cooking the pancakes on medium heat ensures that they cook evenly and don’t burn before the inside is cooked through.
4. Fill Generously: Don’t be shy with the ricotta filling! The creamy texture adds a lot of flavor and richness to the pancakes.
5. Add a Tangy Touch: For extra flavor, top the pancakes with a squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of yogurt.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These pancakes freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or a skillet when ready to serve.
• Filling Storage: If you have leftover ricotta filling, store it separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Spinach Pancakes with Ricotta Filling are an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish that can elevate any breakfast or brunch. The combination of light, fluffy pancakes with the creamy ricotta filling is irresistible, and the addition of spinach adds a nutritious boost. This recipe is quick to make and easy to customize, making it perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. Whether you enjoy them with a drizzle of olive oil, a side of fresh herbs, or your favorite toppings, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your cravings and become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Try them today, and experience a new way to enjoy pancakes—savory, healthy, and utterly delicious.