Mediterranean Spinach Ricotta Bites

These Mediterranean Spinach Ricotta Bites are light, savory, and perfectly bite-sized—ideal as appetizers, snacks, or a healthy side dish. The creamy ricotta blends with fresh spinach, Parmesan, and garlic to create a soft, cheesy filling that’s crisp on the outside and tender inside. They’re easy to make, baked instead of fried, and full of Mediterranean comfort and simplicity.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12–14 bites

Ingredients

For the Spinach Ricotta Bites

1 cup (150 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese

1 egg

¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp (15 g) flour

1 garlic clove, minced (3 g)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional: pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin pan.

Prepare the Spinach

Finely chop the spinach. If it’s very moist, squeeze out excess water using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth—this helps prevent soggy bites.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, flour, garlic, salt, pepper, and the spinach.

Stir until everything is evenly combined into a thick, creamy mixture. Add a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Shape the Bites

Scoop small spoonfuls (about 1 tablespoon each) of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the mini muffin tin.

Bake

Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until golden on the edges and set in the center.

Let cool slightly before removing—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature. These bites pair beautifully with tzatziki, marinara, or yogurt-herb dip on the side.

Tips

Drain the ricotta well: If your ricotta is very soft or watery, place it in a fine mesh strainer for 10–15 minutes before using. This helps keep the bites firm.

Don’t overmix: Stir the mixture just until combined to avoid making the texture too dense.

Check oven timing: Every oven bakes differently. Start checking around 13 minutes—look for light golden edges and a set center.

Use parchment or silicone liners: These bites can stick easily; lining the pan makes cleanup easier and prevents tearing.

Cool before handling: Let them rest a few minutes after baking—they’ll firm up and hold their shape better.

Variations:

Cheese options: Substitute or mix in crumbled feta, mozzarella, or goat cheese for a different flavor.

Add herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or dill can make the flavor brighter and more Mediterranean.

Make it gluten-free: Replace the flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Add texture: Stir in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs for extra crispness.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat.

Turn it into a meal: Serve the bites over a light salad or grain bowl for a satisfying vegetarian dish.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing. Too much moisture can make the bites soggy.

Q: Can I air fry these instead of baking?
A: Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and firm.

Q: How do I store and reheat them?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp again.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake the bites just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I serve these cold?
A: Yes, they taste great at room temperature or even chilled, especially as a snack or part of a mezze platter.

Nutrition

(Per 2–3 bites, approx.)

Calories: 110

Protein: 7 g

Fat: 7 g

Carbohydrates: 3 g

Fiber: 0.5 g

Sugar: 1 g

Calcium: 12% of daily value

(Values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Mediterranean Spinach Ricotta Bites are a perfect mix of light, creamy, and savory—ideal as a quick appetizer, snack, or side. With simple ingredients and just a few minutes of prep, they deliver a flavor that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or packed for a picnic, they’re a versatile and healthy addition to any Mediterranean-inspired menu.