Sformatino di Spinaci (Italian Spinach Flan)

Let me show you how I make Sformatino di Spinaci, a delightful spinach flan that’s creamy, savory, and perfect for any occasion. From my own personal experience, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy spinach in a light, yet flavorful way. It hails from Northern Italy, particularly popular in areas like Piedmont, where rich, hearty dishes like this are a staple.

Notes:

From my overall experience, the key to a perfect Sformatino di Spinaci is ensuring that the spinach is well-drained and the eggs are mixed thoroughly. It’s a creamy, savory dish with just the right balance of flavors, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.

Recipe Overview:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: ~280 kcal
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Side dish or appetizer

Ingredients:

• 1 1/8 pounds (500 g) fresh spinach
• 1 1/8 pounds (500 g) ricotta cheese, well-drained
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• Black pepper, to taste
• Butter (for greasing molds)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating molds)
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Sformatino di Spinaci  here now.

Equipment:

• 6 individual ramekins or muffin tins (or one large ring mold)
• A medium-sized pot for cooking spinach
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Oven-safe molds for baking
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Sformatino di Spinaci  here now.

Method:

1. Prepare the Spinach: Wash the spinach thoroughly, then place it in a pot with just the water clinging to the leaves. Add a pinch of salt and cook for about 3 minutes until wilted. Drain well, pressing out excess water, and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Molds: Butter your molds or ramekins, then coat the insides with breadcrumbs, tapping out the excess. This will help the flans come out easily after baking.
3. Mix Ingredients: Coarsely chop the cooled spinach and combine it with ricotta cheese in a large bowl. Add the Parmigiano cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the Eggs: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then stir them into the spinach mixture. The batter should be smooth and well-combined.
5. Fill the Molds: Spoon the mixture into your prepared molds, pressing down lightly to eliminate air bubbles. Ensure that the tops are even.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Bake the flans for about 30-35 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the flans rest for a few minutes before serving. These are best enjoyed while warm!

Variations:

• Cheese Substitutes: While Parmigiano gives a beautiful sharp flavor, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano, Fontina, or even a mild Gorgonzola for a different taste.
• Vegetable Variations: Try replacing spinach with other leafy greens like Swiss chard or cooked broccoli for a fun twist.

Tips:

• Well-drained Ricotta: Make sure to drain the ricotta well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the sformato.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this alongside grilled meats or as a starter with a light salad.
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Sformatino di Spinaci  here now.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbs: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g

I hope this guide has made making Sformatino di Spinaci seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before, or is this your first time? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below, I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment!

Enjoy your cooking adventure!