These delicate little dumplings are from Zia Lina, my dad's middle sister. She makes a plain version too without the spinach that is equally delicious. She makes these for special occasions (usually when we come!) or even just a family meal. If you're not a fan of spinach just omit it.
Baby spinach | 11 Ounce , washed | |
Ricotta cheese | 16 Ounce | |
Egg | 1 | |
All | purpose flour | |
Salt | 1/2 Teaspoon |
Making
In a large skillet, cover and cook spinach over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
Drain and squeeze spinach well. Chop spinach; set aside.
In large bowl, whisk together ricotta, eggs and spinach.
Gradually stir in 2-1/2 cups (625 mL) of the flour and salt with wooden spoon until soft dough forms.
Place dough on floured surface and knead in remaining flour for 5 minutes to form smooth dough.
Divide dough into 8 pieces; roll each into long thin strands.
Cut into about 36 - 1" (2.5 cm) pieces.
Roll each piece across tines of a fork or gnocchi paddle or basket.
Place in single layer on floured baking sheet.
Repeat with remaining dough.
Place in freezer until firm, about 2 hours.
To cook gnocchi:
In large pot of boiling salted water, cook gnocchi for about 8 minutes or until they float to the top and are tender throughout. Drain with slotted spoon, toss with sauce.
Makes about 2 lbs (1 kg), enough for 4 to 6 servings.
Tip: You can substitute 2-5 oz/142 g tubs of spinach or about 16 cups (4 L) of lightly packed baby spinach.
Serving size Complete recipe
Calories 2306Calories from Fat 593
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 68 g104.6%
Saturated Fat 39 g195%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol
Sodium 1707 mg71.13%
Total Carbohydrates 312 g104%
Dietary Fiber 18 g72%
Sugars 6 g
Protein 104 g208%
Vitamin A % Vitamin C %
Calcium % Iron %
*Based on a 2000 Calorie diet