Savory Spinach and Pancetta Loaf, a soft and flavorful recipe, perfect for appetizers, aperitifs or a quick dinner. Easy to prepare and rich in taste.
The savory spinach and pancetta loaf is a simple and versatile recipe, ideal when you want to serve something rustic, soft and full of flavor. Thanks to the combination of spinach, smoked pancetta and provola, this loaf wins you over from the first bite with its full flavor and a soft, slightly moist texture.
The batter is easy to prepare and made in a few steps with wholesome ingredients: flour, eggs, oil, yogurt and milk which help make the loaf especially soft.
The spinach, steamed or boiled and then well squeezed, blends perfectly into the batter, while the smoked pancetta, added raw, releases all its aroma during baking.
This savory loaf is perfect for many occasions: it can be served as an appetizer, brought to the table for an aperitif with friends, or enjoyed for a quick dinner accompanied by a simple salad. It is also a practical solution for buffets, picnics or meals on the go.
Once sliced, it reveals a soft, rich interior where each ingredient contributes to a simple but irresistible balance of flavors.
At the end of the recipe, in the FAQ section, I answered some questions about this preparation. If you have other doubts or curiosities, write a comment or use the contact form at the end of the page.
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- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Affordable
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Cooking time: 40 Minutes
- Portions: 8 Servings
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
- Energy 325.11 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 25.88 (g) of which sugars 1.69 (g)
- Proteins 13.90 (g)
- Fat 19.28 (g) of which saturated 5.63 (g)of which unsaturated 4.10 (g)
- Fibers 0.81 (g)
- Sodium 408.57 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 40 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for the Savory Spinach and Pancetta Loaf
- 2 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 oz Parmigiano Reggiano PDO (about 3/4 cup, grated)
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (approx. 5 tbsp + 1 tsp)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 3 oz smoked pancetta (diced)
- 2 oz smoked provola (cubed)
- 2 cubes frozen spinach
- 1 packet instant baking powder for savory preparations
- 1 teaspoon salt
Tools
- Bowl
- Sieve
- Loaf pan
- Parchment paper
Recipe for the Savory Spinach and Pancetta Loaf
Start preparing the savory spinach and pancetta loaf by whisking the eggs and yogurt together.
Slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to mix.
Do the same with the milk.
Add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and the salt.
Sift the all-purpose flour and the instant baking powder for savory preparations directly into the bowl with the wet ingredients.
Fold with a spatula until you obtain a smooth, lump-free batter.
Dice the smoked provola and add it to the batter.
Add the pancetta as well and mix well.
Cook the spinach in boiling water or steam.
Squeeze them well and add them to the batter.
Mix thoroughly to distribute them evenly.
Transfer everything into a parchment-lined loaf pan about 12 in (30 cm).
I use tongs to help, but this is optional.
Level the batter with a spatula.
With an oiled knife, make a cut along the center of the batter: this will help prevent the loaf from cracking while baking.
Bake the savory spinach and pancetta loaf in a preheated conventional oven at 356°F (180°C) for 40-45 minutes.
Let it cool completely before slicing.
Savory Spinach and Pancetta Loaf – Soft and Flavorful
Soft, aromatic and full of flavor, the savory spinach and pancetta loaf is a simple recipe that wins you over with its tender texture and rustic taste. Perfect enjoyed warm or at room temperature, it is a practical and versatile dish to bring to the table on many occasions, from an informal aperitif to a quick family dinner.
Also try the Savory Waffles, the perfect recipe for brunches and aperitifs!
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
How should I store the savory spinach and pancetta loaf?
The savory loaf can be kept at room temperature for about 1 day, well covered. Alternatively, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
Can the savory loaf be frozen?
Yes, the savory spinach and pancetta loaf can be frozen. It is recommended to slice it and store the slices in food bags. To enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature and warm slightly.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Of course. Fresh spinach should simply be cooked in a pan or steamed and then well squeezed before adding to the batter.
What can I substitute for provola?
Provola can be substituted with other stretched-curd cheeses such as scamorza or well-drained mozzarella.
Spinach Pancakes – Simple and Tasty Recipe
For questions, curiosities or if you want to collaborate with me, use the contact form below:
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