Oven-baked eggs with spinach

Baked Eggs with Spinach: a delicious and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Imagine a perfect combination of soft eggs, fresh spinach, and melted cheese, all baked to create a dish that not only looks good but also delights the taste buds. This baked eggs with spinach recipe is simple, quick, and most importantly, packed with nutrients. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or a light dinner, these eggs are sure to become a favorite in any household.

Recipe History

Spinach, a versatile ingredient, is used in various dishes around the world. Over time, it has been appreciated not only for its taste but also for its exceptional nutritional benefits. Eggs, in turn, have been a staple ingredient in many cultures, holding rich symbolism in culinary traditions. The combination of these two ingredients has led to the creation of a savory dish that blends the creamy texture of eggs with the distinct flavor of spinach.

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen if out of season)
- 1 green garlic stalk (or 2 cloves of garlic)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 50 g grated cheese (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Utensils

- Frying pan
- Oven-safe dishes (or a baking dish)
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Knife and cutting board
- Pots for boiling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the spinach
Start by cleaning and washing the spinach well. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and drained well before use. Then, place it in a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds, just until it changes color. This step helps preserve the vibrant color and nutrients. Drain the spinach in a colander and let it cool slightly.

2. Sauté the garlic
In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green garlic (or garlic cloves) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can give a bitter taste to the dish.

3. Add the spinach
Place the drained spinach in the pan and mix it with the garlic. Cook the mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Finally, add salt and lemon juice to taste. The lemon will provide a pleasant contrast and highlight the flavor of the spinach.

4. Prepare the baking dish
Divide the spinach mixture among the oven-safe dishes. Use a spoon to create a small well in the center of each portion where the eggs will be placed.

5. Add the eggs
Carefully crack an egg into each well created in the spinach. Make sure not to break the yolk if you prefer it to remain intact. It will become creamy and delicious when baked.

6. Baking
Sprinkle freshly ground pepper over the eggs and cover everything with grated cheese. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dishes in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the egg whites are cooked and the yolks are still slightly soft (baking time depends on your personal preferences).

7. Serving
Serve the dish warm, directly from the oven-safe dishes. You can add some slices of toasted bread on the side to complete the meal. A fresh green salad can add an extra touch of freshness.

Chef's Tip

If you want to add another layer of flavor, you can include some slices of tomato or bell pepper in the spinach mixture. You can also replace the cheese with feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Eggs are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them essential for a balanced diet. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it ideal for healthy eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good option, but make sure to drain it well after thawing to avoid excess water.

- What type of cheese can I use instead of cheese?
You can use feta, mozzarella, or even parmesan, depending on your preferences.

- How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some finely chopped chili or chili flakes to the spinach mixture before adding the eggs.

Delicious Combinations

These baked eggs with spinach pair perfectly with a tomato and cucumber salad, but can also be served with a refreshing drink, such as a fruit smoothie or green tea. Additionally, a glass of white wine will perfectly complement this meal.

Enjoy this simple and healthy recipe for baked eggs with spinach, which will bring a splash of color and flavor to every meal!