Ingredients
Scale
For the Spinach Balls:
- 10 oz fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- Tzatziki
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- If Using Fresh Spinach: Place the fresh spinach in a steamer basket or saucepan with a splash of water. Steam over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess water. Chop the spinach finely.
- If Using Frozen Spinach: Thaw the spinach completely, then place it in a fine-mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. Properly draining the spinach is key to ensuring the spinach balls hold together.
- Set Aside: Place the prepared spinach in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the spinach, add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix well until the mixture starts to come together and holds its shape. The eggs help bind the ingredients, creating a cohesive mixture that’s easy to shape into balls.
- Adjust the Texture: If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg. If it’s too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs to help absorb the excess moisture.
Step 3: Shape the Spinach Balls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each spinach ball on the prepared baking sheet. You should have about 24 spinach balls.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each spinach ball with a small amount of olive oil. This helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Spinach Balls
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the spinach balls are firm and lightly golden on the outside. Turn them halfway through baking for even browning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the spinach balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange on a Serving Platter: Transfer the spinach balls to a serving platter. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve the spinach balls with a selection of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or tzatziki. The dipping sauces add flavor and make them even more enjoyable.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 spinach balls
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g