Best Easy Strangolapreti Trentini Recipe

Spinach and stale bread dumplings bathed in brown butter and sage are Trentino's vegetarian pride. This healthy mediterranean-alpine hybrid is rich in fresh greens and perfect for clean eats.

Cook 50 min Difficulty NORMAL 265 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • stale Italian bread, cubed 3 cups
  • fresh spinach, packed 8 cups
  • whole milk 0.75 cup
  • eggs 2 pieces
  • Parmesan cheese, grated 0.5 cup
  • all-purpose flour 0.33 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • butter 4 tbsp
  • fresh sage leaves 10 pieces
  • nutmeg, freshly grated 0.25 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 35 g 52%
Protein 12 g 18%
Fat 8 g 30%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large skillet over medium heat, wilt the spinach in batches with a few tablespoons of water until just tender, about 2 minutes per batch. Cool slightly and squeeze thoroughly to remove all excess moisture. Chop finely.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, soak the cubed stale bread with the milk for 5–10 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally to ensure even moisture. Gently squeeze out any excess and break up large chunks with your hands.

  3. 3

    To the moistened bread, add chopped spinach, eggs, Parmesan, flour, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix by hand or with a spatula until just combined. Let rest 10 minutes—this helps the mixture bind.

  4. 4

    Shape dough into golf-ball sized dumplings with damp hands, pressing gently but firmly. If the mixture is too loose, sprinkle with a bit more flour, mixing lightly just until cohesive.

  5. 5

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Lower dumplings in batches and cook about 4–5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are firm to the touch. Lift out with a slotted spoon and drain briefly.

  6. 6

    In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until butter turns golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Do not let the butter burn.

  7. 7

    Plate dumplings and spoon the brown butter–sage over top. Serve immediately with additional Parmesan if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The foundation of Strangolapreti Trentini is fresh spinach and stale Italian bread. The spinach provides a vibrant, earthy flavor and healthy greens, while the bread forms a tender base for the dumplings. Parmesan, milk, and eggs add richness and binding.
Q. What should I focus on to get the best texture for these dumplings?
It's crucial to thoroughly squeeze moisture from the cooked spinach and soaked bread. Excess water makes dumplings fall apart. Letting the mixture rest and using gentle hand mixing prevents overworking, yielding soft, cohesive dumplings.
Q. How do I avoid overcooking or undercooking the dumplings?
Simmer the dumplings gently—never boil vigorously. Cook until they float (about 4–5 minutes), checking for a firm yet light feel. Overcooking can make them soggy, while undercooking leaves a raw texture inside.
Q. Is this recipe high in protein or carbs?
Each serving of Strangolapreti Trentini has about 12g of protein and 35g of carbohydrates, with 265 calories. Protein makes up 18% of calories, while carbs are 52%, and fat is 30%.
Q. Which ingredient makes the biggest difference in flavor?
Fresh sage sautéed in butter is essential—it infuses the dumplings with aromatic, nutty notes characteristic of northern Italian cooking. Don’t skip or substitute the sage–butter finish.
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