MINI EASTER RICOTTA & SPINACH PIES

MINI EASTER RICOTTA & SPINACH PIES

This recipe is inspired by a traditional Italian cacio e pepe style dish. These mini ricotta & spinach pies are the perfect healthy bites for kids. They are protein-packed, guaranteed to keep you satisfied this Easter.

Serves: 6

Dietary: Suitable for vegetarian, peanut-free, tree-nut free

Contains; milk (ricotta cheese, parmesan), egg, wheat (filo pastry)

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

 

INGREDIENTS

1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese (low-fat)

1 ½  cup (100 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped

2 eggs, medium size

½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp nutmeg

6 small whole wheat filo pastry squares

1 Tbsp olive oil

 

METHOD

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 oC/160 oC Fan/350 oF/Gas Mark 4.
  2. Refrigerate 1 sheet of filo pastry.
  3. Mix ricotta, spinach, eggs and Parmesan in a bowl.
  4. Season with black pepper and nutmeg.
  5. Brush a muffin tin with oil and gently brush some oil onto the sheet of filo pastry.
  6. Cut the sheet into 6 squares and place them into the muffin tin to create a shell-like shape.
  7. Fill the pastry sheets with the mixture.
  8. Cook for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Allow them to cool before serving.

 

This recipe has been donated by a Public Health Nutrition Student, Caoimhe Lalor, Nutrition Student from Atlantic Technological University.

 

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Per serving: 1 pastry (92 g)
Total calories: 162 kcal
Fat: 11.0 g
 of which saturates: 5.3 g
Carbohydrate: 5.0 g
 of which sugars: 1.5 g
Fibre:  0.6 g
Protein:  10 g
Salt:  0.41g

 

NUTRITION FACTS

  • Protein is important for building and maintaining muscle, weight management and bone health. There are 10 g per serving, which is 20% of the daily recommended intake.
  • This recipe is an excellent source of vitamin A. Vitamin A plays an antioxidant role in the body. It has many functions such as vision, reproduction, bone and tooth growth.
  • This recipe is an excellent source of vitamin K. Vitamin K positively influences calcium balance in the body. It is involved in several other mechanisms essential for bone metabolism.
  • This recipe is also an excellent source of calcium and B12, as well as a good source of riboflavin, niacin, and folate.

VARIATIONS

  1. Can use cream cheese instead of ricotta.
  2. Use pesto to add more flavour.
  3. Use flaxseed “egg” instead of eggs for a vegan alternative.
  4. Use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan or allergy-friendly.

 

Checked by Kathy Lewis, R.Nutr, Registered Nutritionist

© 2025, The Caroline Walker Trust