Involtini di Maiale con Spinaci e Formaggio (Pork Involtini with Spinach and Cheese)

Ingredients

• 4 pork loin slices (about 1/4 inch thick) (400g) 4 pork loin slices (about 1/4 inch thick) (400g)
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach leaves, blanched and chopped 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach leaves, blanched and chopped
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (120g) ricotta cheese 1/2 cup (120g) ricotta cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 7g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Lay the pork loin slices flat on a clean surface and divide the spinach and cheese mixture evenly among them, spreading it over the surface of each slice.
4. 4.
   Roll up each slice tightly and secure with toothpicks.
5. 5.
   Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the pork rolls on all sides until browned.
6. 6.
   Transfer the seared rolls to a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over them.
7. 7.
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove the toothpicks before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to blanch the spinach leaves before chopping them to retain their vibrant green color and prevent them from becoming too wilted.
• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Ricotta cheese — Opt for a creamy and smooth ricotta cheese to ensure a luscious filling for the pork rolls.

Tips & Tricks

• To add an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the tomato sauce before baking.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach and cheese mixture.
• Serve the Involtini di Maiale with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• If toothpicks are not available, you can use kitchen twine to secure the pork rolls.
• Leftover Involtini di Maiale can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Involtini di Maiale hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Pair them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Involtini di Maiale on a platter, drizzle some extra tomato sauce over them, and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil for an elegant touch.