Description
Crispy Spinach and Cheese Croquettes deliver Mediterranean comfort on a plate, blending golden-brown exteriors with luxurious inner textures. Spanish-inspired appetizers promise delightful flavor combinations that will transport you to sunny coastal kitchens with each irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Spinach and Cheese Croquettes
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (473 ml) fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Coating Ingredients:
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Infuse the olive oil with minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence in a medium-heated pan for approximately 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with a tantalizing fragrance.
- Incorporate the chopped spinach, gently wilting the leaves for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their vibrant green color.
- Remove the spinach mixture from heat and permit it to cool momentarily, ensuring the temperature reduces to prevent melting cheese prematurely.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper, blending the ingredients until thoroughly integrated.
- Shape the verdant mixture into uniform, palm-sized oval croquettes, ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
- Prepare a breading station with separate bowls of flour, whisked eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Delicately roll each croquette first in flour, then immerse in beaten egg, and finally coat comprehensively with breadcrumbs, creating a crisp protective layer.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F, maintaining a consistent temperature for optimal frying.
- Carefully lower the breaded croquettes into the hot oil, frying until they transform into a golden-brown, crispy exterior, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Extract the croquettes using a slotted spoon, allowing excess oil to drain on paper towels, which will help maintain their delightful crunch.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by a zesty marinara or herb-infused aioli for an elevated culinary experience.
Notes
- Choose fresh, vibrant spinach leaves for maximum flavor and nutrition, avoiding wilted or discolored greens.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from cooked spinach to prevent soggy croquettes and ensure a crispy exterior.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like feta, gouda, or parmesan to customize the taste profile and add complexity.
- Gluten-free option: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for celiac-friendly croquettes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg