Name: Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250g fresh spinach; 250g ricotta cheese; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; 80g all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 400g San Marzano tomatoes or quality canned tomatoes, crushed; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Handful fresh basil leaves, chopped

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Indulge in authentic Italian comfort with Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce, a delightful dish that combines tender, cheesy spinach dumplings with a vibrant, fresh tomato sauce. This recipe brings the heart of Italy straight to your kitchen, offering a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that satisfy every craving for something homemade and nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned pasta lover or new to Italian cooking, these Malfatti will charm your taste buds and soon become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Italian Flair: Made with traditional ingredients and techniques, it truly captures Italy’s culinary soul.
Nutritious and Comforting: Spinach and ricotta provide healthy richness alongside cozy, hearty flavors.
Simple Yet Impressive: With just a few essential ingredients, you get a dish that feels gourmet but is easy to prepare.
Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and soft textures make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce lies in its minimal but powerful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the earthy spinach to the creamy ricotta, crafting both texture and flavor, while the Napoli sauce brings vibrant freshness and a touch of sweetness.

Fresh Spinach: Provides color, nutrition, and a mild vegetal flavor essential for the dumplings.
Ricotta Cheese: Offers creamy richness and lightness, balancing the spinach perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch to enhance every bite.
All-Purpose Flour: Binds the mixture to create the perfect dumpling consistency.
Egg: Acts as a natural binder ensuring the dumplings hold together during cooking.
Garlic and Fresh Basil: Infuse the Napoli sauce with classic Italian aromas and flavors.
San Marzano Tomatoes or Quality Canned Tomatoes: Form the base of the Napoli sauce with sweet, tangy notes.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and finishing the sauce, bringing a fruity depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both dumplings and sauce to perfection.

Variations for Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce

Feel free to make this dish your own by tweaking the ingredients or adapting it for dietary needs. The recipe is wonderfully flexible and can easily be customized to suit different tastes and preferences.

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for sensitive diets.
Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan ricotta substitutes and skip the egg, adding a flaxseed “egg” as a binder.
Herbs Variation: Swap basil for oregano or add fresh thyme to the Napoli sauce for a unique twist.
Cheese Boost: Mix in mozzarella or asiago with ricotta for a richer texture and flavor.
Additional Vegetables: Toss finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini into the dumpling mix for extra nutrients.

Malfatti Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings with Napoli Sauce

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How to Make Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Dumpling Mixture

Start by blanching fresh spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted, then drain and chop finely. Combine the chopped spinach with ricotta, grated Parmesan, flour, a pinch of salt and pepper, and one beaten egg in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently until the mixture forms a soft dough consistency, perfect for shaping.

Step 2: Form the Dumplings

Lightly flour your hands and pinch off small portions of the mixture, rolling each into irregular, rustic dumpling shapes typical of Malfatti. Place them on a floured tray to prevent sticking. The name ‘Malfatti’ means “poorly made” in Italian, signifying their charmingly imperfect shape.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop the Malfatti dumplings in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside while you prepare the Napoli sauce.

Step 4: Make the Napoli Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavorful.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked Malfatti gently in the Napoli sauce so they are evenly coated. Serve hot, sprinkled with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Making Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce

Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh is best for vibrant color and flavor, but frozen spinach can work if well-drained.
Don’t Overmix: Combining ingredients just enough keeps dumplings tender rather than dense.
Salt the Water Generously: Properly seasoned water infuses flavor into dumplings while cooking.
Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent dumplings from sticking or breaking apart.
Simmer the Sauce Low and Slow: Patience here develops a richer and well-balanced Napoli sauce.
Test One Dumpling First: Cooking a small test portion checks the consistency before shaping all dumplings.

How to Serve Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your plate with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add aroma and enhance presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these tender dumplings with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Malfatti in rustic bowls layered with Napoli sauce and scattered pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunchy contrast. For gatherings, offer a platter ready for family-style sharing, letting everyone dive in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cooked Malfatti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the Napoli sauce separately to preserve freshness and keep dumplings from soaking up too much liquid.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen by adding a minute or two to the boiling time. The sauce can also be frozen separately in airtight containers.

Reheating

Gently reheat cooked Malfatti in a skillet with warmed Napoli sauce over low heat. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent drying out; stirring frequently helps maintain softness and flavor.

FAQs

What does “Malfatti” mean?

“Malfatti” translates to “poorly made” in Italian, referring to the dumplings’ irregular, rustic shape that gives them charming character.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for Malfatti?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid soggy dumplings and ensure the right texture.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese in this recipe?

You can try cottage cheese blended smooth or vegan ricotta alternatives if you need a dairy-free option, adjusting moisture as needed.

How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?

The Malfatti will float to the surface of boiling water when they are done, usually within 3-4 minutes after dropping them in.

Can I make Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve for a quick, fresh meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that spoils your taste buds with warmth and a touch of rustic Italy, Malfatti (Italian Spinach Ricotta Dumplings) with Napoli Sauce is the perfect recipe to try. The combination of tender dumplings and rich tomato sauce creates an inviting dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Grab these ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy cooking a treasured Italian classic that will surely become a delicious ritual in your home.