Prepare the Pancake Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine milk, egg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well mixed.
Add the spinach and puree the mixture with a blender until smooth.
Add Flour and Oil:
Gradually add the flour to the spinach mixture, stirring to combine.
Add 10 ml of avocado oil and mix well until the batter is smooth.
Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a bit more avocado oil.
Pour in a portion of the spinach batter and distribute it evenly in the pan.
Fry for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until golden and set.
Assemble the Rolls:
Spread a layer of ricotta over each cooked pancake and roll it into a log.
Repeat with the remaining pancakes and filling.
Cut each roll into even pieces for serving.
Recipe Details
Spinach Pancake Batter:
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) adds a rich green color and mild flavor. Blend it with the batter to ensure smoothness.
Pancake Base: Use a standard pancake or crepe batter with flour, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Adding a bit of melted butter or olive oil enhances softness.
Seasoning: A touch of garlic powder or herbs (like dill or basil) complements the spinach and adds flavor.
Ricotta Filling:
Ricotta Cheese: Combine fresh ricotta with a bit of lemon zest, salt, and pepper. For a richer filling, fold in grated Parmesan or feta.
Herbs and Add-ins: Chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives, along with a handful of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives, add texture and depth.
Assembly and Rolling:
Spread a thin layer of ricotta filling over each pancake. Roll tightly and cut into pieces for serving.
Cooking and Assembly Tips
Cooking the Pancakes: Pour batter onto a nonstick skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook until light golden.
Filling and Rolling: Let the pancakes cool slightly before adding the filling to prevent melting. Roll tightly and cut into slices or serve whole, drizzled with olive oil or garnished with herbs.
Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs. They pair well with a side salad or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added acidity.
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 20–25 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutesServe and Enjoy:Arrange the rolls on a plate and serve immediately. These rolls are filling, nutritious, and perfect as a snack or light meal
Cooking Tips
Blend Well: Ensure spinach is blended smoothly to avoid clumps in the batter.
Use a Hot Pan: Heat the pan well before adding the batter to prevent sticking.
Customize the Filling: Add herbs like basil or chives to the ricotta for extra flavor.
Prevent Sticking: Flip the pancake only when the batter stops sticking to your hands or spatula.
Use Other Oils if Needed: Olive or coconut oil can replace avocado oil if unavailable.
Additional Preparation Tips
Spinach Pancake Batter:
Blending Spinach: Blend spinach with milk until smooth before adding other batter ingredients. This ensures a consistent green color and even texture.
Optional Ingredients: A small amount of baking powder helps create fluffier pancakes, especially if the batter includes a higher proportion of flour.
Consistency: Aim for a pourable but not too runny batter; if it’s too thick, add a little extra milk to achieve the right texture.
Ricotta Filling:
Ricotta Texture: For a smoother filling, whip the ricotta with a hand mixer or food processor. This makes it creamier and easier to spread.
Flavor Additions: Mix in a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweet filling, which balances the savory spinach.
Alternative Cheeses: Blend in goat cheese, mascarpone, or even cottage cheese for a different texture and taste.
Cooking Steps for Best Results
Cooking the Pancakes:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil or butter, then pour batter to create 5–6-inch pancakes (or larger if you prefer).
Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook briefly on the other side. Let pancakes cool on a wire rack before filling.
Filling and Rolling:
Spread a thin layer of ricotta filling over each pancake, reaching close to the edges.
Roll each pancake tightly without overstuffing to prevent filling from spilling. Use a sharp knife to trim ends for a neater presentation if serving as bite-sized rolls.
Flavor Variations and Additions
Herb Variations:
Fresh basil, dill, parsley, or thyme can add unique flavors that complement the ricotta filling.
Flavor Enhancements:
Spices: A pinch of nutmeg, black pepper, or red pepper flakes can add warmth to the filling.
Vegetable Add-ins: Finely diced bell peppers, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms can be mixed into the filling for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Spinach: High in nitrates, which may support blood circulation and lower blood sugar levels.
Ricotta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, adding filling quality to the dish.
Avocado Oil: Provides healthy fats and aids in nutrient absorption.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian-Friendly
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with gluten-free flour blend.
Contains Dairy and Eggs
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain the texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy and Filling: Packed with spinach and ricotta, these pancakes are both nutritious and satisfying.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this a quick recipe.
Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy as breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
Customizable: Adjust fillings and seasonings to suit your taste.
Conclusion
These Spinach Pancake Rolls are a delightful and healthy choice for anyone looking for a quick, nutritious meal. The combination of spinach and ricotta creates a perfect balance of flavor and nutrients. Try these easy, satisfying rolls at home and let us know how they turn out!
