How to Make Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

If you’re dreaming of a dish that embodies the heart of Italian comfort food, then this recipe for Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce is your new go-to. These delicate, fluffy dumplings packed with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta swim in a vibrant, homemade Napoli sauce bursting with fresh tomatoes and fragrant herbs. It’s a timeless combination that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion where you want a simple yet impressive meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort with a twist: Light spinach and ricotta dumplings bring freshness to a rich Napoli sauce.
• Fresh, wholesome ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples that create an unforgettable, artisan-quality taste.
• Perfect for any meal: Equally great as a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.
• Vegetarian-friendly indulgence: A meat-free dish that still feels hearty and satisfying.
• Impress without stress: Easy enough to prepare but impressive in presentation and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe leans on fresh, quality ingredients that each play a pivotal role in making your Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce sing with vibrant flavor and ideal texture. From delicate greens to fragrant herbs, each element is essential yet wonderfully simple.

• Fresh spinach: Provides earthy flavor and moisture for the dumplings.
• Ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess and richness to the filling.
• Flour: Gives structure to the dumplings making them light yet sturdy.
• Eggs: Acts as a binder, holding the dumpling mixture together perfectly.
• Garlic and onion: Build the aromatic base for the Napoli sauce.
• Tomatoes (canned or fresh): Form the vibrant, flavorful heart of the Napoli sauce.
• Fresh basil and oregano: Add authentic Italian herbaceous notes to the sauce.
• Olive oil: Enhances flavor and brings smoothness to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both dumplings and sauce to perfection.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but highly recommended for topping and enhancing umami.

Variations for Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

One of the most rewarding aspects of this recipe is how effortlessly you can adapt it to suit different dietary needs or flavor profiles. Whether you want to keep it traditional or add your own flair, these variations are simple to try.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for dumpling dough.
• Vegan adaptation: Use tofu or cashew cheese instead of ricotta and a flaxseed egg replacement.
• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the Napoli sauce for heat.
• Added protein: Mix in some cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms to the dumpling mix.
• Herb variations: Try adding fresh parsley or thyme for a different aromatic profile.

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

Step 1: Preparing the Spinach and Ricotta Mixture

Start by washing fresh spinach and blanching it in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain well and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent soggy dumplings. Chop finely and combine it with ricotta cheese, a pinch of salt, pepper, and one beaten egg in a bowl. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 2: Making the Dumpling Dough

Gradually add flour to the spinach and ricotta mixture, folding it in to create a soft but workable dough. You want it slightly sticky but able to hold shape when formed into small dumplings. Avoid over-mixing to keep the dumplings delicate and tender.

Step 3: Shaping and Cooking the Dumplings

Using two spoons or your hands, gently shape the mixture into bite-sized dumplings. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then carefully drop the dumplings in. They will cook in just a few minutes, about 3-4, until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove and set them aside.

Step 4: Making the Napoli Sauce

While dumplings cook, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes to blend all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Combining and Serving

Carefully transfer the cooked dumplings to the simmering Napoli sauce, stirring gently to coat. Let them warm together for a couple of minutes so the dumplings absorb the sauce’s flavor. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

• Drain spinach thoroughly: Excess water will ruin dumpling texture, so squeeze it dry.
• Don’t overwork the dough: It keeps dumplings tender and light.
• Use fresh herbs: They elevate the Napoli sauce from good to outstanding.
• Simmer sauce gently: Slow simmering unlocks richer tomato flavors without bitterness.
• Test one dumpling first: Cooking a single dumpling helps ensure the mixture holds together.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few torn fresh basil leaves add brightness and an authentic Italian touch to the final dish. For richness, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top works beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil or some warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls for an inviting rustic look, or plate elegantly with a basil leaf nest atop for a restaurant-worthy presentation. For gatherings, offer mini dumplings in small cups with sauce for a fun appetizer version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover dumplings and sauce separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked dumplings by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze Napoli sauce separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat dumplings gently in warmed Napoli sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent dumplings from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

While fresh spinach delivers the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach if well-drained and squeezed dry to prevent sogginess.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be alternatives, but they will change the texture slightly; for vegan options, try crumbled tofu blended with nutritional yeast.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store cooked dumplings and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 2 days to keep flavors fresh and textures intact.

Can I prepare the dumplings in advance?

Yes! You can make dumplings ahead and freeze them uncooked; cook directly from frozen by adding a minute or two to boiling time.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour blends instead of regular flour to make the dumplings gluten-free without compromising taste.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Ricotta Dumplings in Napoli Sauce is a delightful journey into traditional Italian flavors with a homemade touch that feels both special and comforting. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe always brings smiles to the table. Give it a try—you won’t regret making this delicious, fresh, and inviting dish part of your regular cooking repertoire!

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