If you’re craving a savory snack that’s both crispy and comforting, Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer} are the answer. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of an oven or the quick crispiness an air fryer delivers, this recipe makes creating golden, flaky rolls effortless. Packed with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese, these rolls offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible option for any time of the day.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal anytime you need a quick bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples combined with wholesome greens for a nutritious treat.
- Oven or Air Fryer Friendly: Easily adaptable to your kitchen gear, both methods yield crispy and flaky rolls.
- Vegetarian Friendly: Meat-free and packed with protein and fiber from ricotta and spinach.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Minimal prep work means these rolls come together fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients, each contributing to rich flavor, creamy texture, or delightful crunch. Fresh spinach brings earthiness, ricotta adds creaminess, and the pastry ensures a golden crisp exterior.
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen, it provides vibrant color and subtle bitterness that pairs beautifully with ricotta.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the spinach and binds the filling.
- Phyllo or Puff Pastry Sheets: Choose based on your preference for light, flaky layers or buttery richness.
- Onion and Garlic: Finely chopped for aromatic flavor that enhances the filling.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Used to brush pastry sheets, ensuring crispiness and golden color.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate the natural flavors.
- Grated Parmesan (optional): Adds a salty, umami kick if you want extra flavor.
- Egg Wash: For brushing the rolls before baking or air frying to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
Variations
One of the best parts about Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer} is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to tweak flavors to suit dietary needs or experiment with different textures, these variations let you tailor the recipe just the way you like it.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for different creaminess levels.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint for an herbal twist and bright aroma.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pastry sheets or wraps to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive folks.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili for an exciting heat boost.
- Vegan Version: Replace ricotta with mashed tofu or cashew cream, and use plant-based pastry for a vegan-friendly snack.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer}
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling
Start by sautéing finely chopped onions and garlic in a little olive oil until soft and fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, making sure to remove excess moisture. Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly before mixing in ricotta cheese, Parmesan (if using), and seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Sheets
Lay out your phyllo or puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. If using phyllo, brush each layer lightly with butter or olive oil to ensure maximum flakiness. Cut the sheets into rectangles large enough to wrap around the filling securely.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place a generous spoonful of the spinach and ricotta filling on one end of each pastry rectangle. Roll the pastry tightly around the filling, sealing the edges with a little water or beaten egg to prevent leaking.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
To bake in the oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C), place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray, brush with egg wash for that golden shimmer, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until crisp and golden. If you prefer the air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the rolls in batches for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, let your spinach and ricotta rolls cool for a few minutes to firm up before serving. This resting helps maintain their crisp texture and lets the filling set just right.
Pro Tips for Making Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer}
- Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Excess water can make the filling soggy; use a fine sieve or cheesecloth to squeeze out all moisture.
- Brush Pastry Layers: Don’t skip brushing each phyllo layer to guarantee flakiness and prevent sticking.
- Seal Edges Well: Use a bit of water or egg wash along pastry edges to keep rolls intact during cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer or Oven: Starting with a hot cooking environment helps achieve the perfect crispy texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the pastry to tear or leak.
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer}
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil on top of the warm rolls for added freshness and a pop of color. A dusting of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with a crisp garden salad, a tangy marinara dipping sauce, or creamy garlic yogurt dip to balance the richness of the rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer} as elegant finger food at your next party, sliced diagonally on a wooden board with assorted cheeses and olives, or stacked high with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a vibrant look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Freezing
These rolls freeze well before cooking. Assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking or air frying time.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or use the air fryer for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer}?
Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid sogginess in the filling.
What type of pastry is best for these rolls?
Phyllo pastry offers a lighter, flakier texture, while puff pastry gives a richer, buttery crunch—both work well depending on your preference.
Can these rolls be made vegan?
Yes, substitute ricotta with tofu or cashew cream and use vegan pastry sheets for a delicious plant-based version.
How long do the rolls take to cook in an air fryer?
Typically, 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C), turning halfway through ensures even cooking and crispness.
Can I prepare these rolls in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, then bake or air fry just before serving for freshness.
Final Thoughts
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer} are a fantastic addition to any kitchen repertoire, delivering flaky, savory goodness with a simple, satisfying filling. Easy to customize and quick to make, they’re perfect for snacks, appetizers, or anytime you want a warm, tasty treat. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite go-to cozy bite.
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Spinach and Ricotta Rolls {Oven or Air Fryer}
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (oven) or 10-12 minutes (air fryer)
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spinach and Ricotta Rolls are crispy, flaky pastries filled with a savory mixture of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, and fragrant aromatics. Perfectly baked or air fried, these versatile vegetarian rolls make a delicious snack, appetizer, or light meal with minimal prep time and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or thawed and drained frozen spinach)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pastry & Assembly
- 6–8 sheets phyllo pastry or puff pastry
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach Filling: Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, then drain thoroughly to remove all excess moisture. Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl, let it cool slightly, then mix in ricotta cheese, Parmesan (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Pastry Sheets: Lay out your phyllo or puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. If using phyllo, brush each layer lightly with olive oil or melted butter to ensure flakiness. Cut the sheets into rectangles large enough to wrap the filling securely.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place a generous spoonful of the spinach and ricotta filling at one end of each pastry rectangle. Roll the pastry tightly around the filling, sealing the edges with a little water or beaten egg to prevent leaking.
- Cook the Rolls: For oven baking, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray, brush with egg wash, then bake for 20-25 minutes until crisp and golden. For air frying, preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C), cook the rolls in batches for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cooked rolls cool for a few minutes to firm up and maintain their crisp texture before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid soggy filling.
- Brush each phyllo layer with oil or butter to achieve maximum flakiness.
- Seal edges well with water or egg wash to prevent filling leakage.
- Preheat oven or air fryer for best crispy results.
- Avoid overfilling the pastry to prevent tearing.
- Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in oven or air fryer.
- You can freeze assembled rolls before cooking; bake or air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
- Do not microwave reheated rolls to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg