Spinach, mushroom, and cottage cheese roll

Spinach, Mushroom, and Cottage Cheese Roll

When it comes to delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dishes, the spinach, mushroom, and cottage cheese roll is certainly one of those recipes that combines taste with nutrition in a delightful manner. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, suitable for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer at a festive meal.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 450 g frozen spinach
- 500 g fresh mushrooms
- 350 g cottage cheese
- 2 bunches of green onions (only the leaves)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 8 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste

History of the spinach roll:
Stuffed rolls are a culinary tradition that dates back centuries, rooted in food preservation practices. Over time, various ingredients have been used to create delicious fillings, and the combination of spinach and cheese has become a popular choice due to its refined taste and nutritional value. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins, while mushrooms add flavor and texture.

Step by step for a perfect roll:

1. Preparing the spinach:
Thaw 450 g of spinach in a colander. Let it drain well to remove excess water, which is essential to avoid a wet roll.

2. Sauté the mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Chop the fresh mushrooms into cubes and add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and they release their juices.

3. Add spinach and greens:
Once the mushrooms are ready, add the drained and chopped spinach, along with the green leaves from the two bunches of green onions, dill, and finely chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the mixture for another 5-6 minutes until all the liquid has evaporated. Let the mixture cool.

4. Prepare the cheese mixture:
In a large bowl, mix 350 g of cottage cheese with 6 eggs and 5 tablespoons of flour. Use a mixer or spatula to achieve a smooth composition.

5. Combine the ingredients:
Once the mushroom and spinach mixture has cooled, incorporate it into the cheese mixture. Make sure everything is well mixed so that each bite is filled with the delicious flavor of the ingredients.

6. Prepare the baking dish:
Preheat the oven to 190 °C. Choose a round baking dish (or any shape you prefer), line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish, leveling the surface well.

7. Add the beaten eggs:
Beat 2 eggs and pour them evenly over the mixture in the dish. This layer will create a golden and appetizing crust that will enhance the appearance of the roll.

8. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until it is firm and nicely browned on top.

9. Cooling and serving:
Once the roll is ready, let it cool in the dish for 10 minutes before transferring it to a platter. Slice and enjoy!

Useful tips:
- Vegetarian option: You can replace cottage cheese with ricotta or feta cheese for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Enhance the flavor: Add some chopped black olives or roasted red peppers to the mushroom mixture for an extra kick.
- Serving: This roll pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with mint, adding a refreshing note.

Nutritional benefits:
This roll is packed with nutrients. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins A and C, mushrooms contain beneficial antioxidants, and cottage cheese provides essential proteins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, fresh spinach can be used, but make sure to sauté it well to remove excess water.
- What other ingredients could I add to the filling? Sautéed zucchini or grated carrots are excellent in this mixture.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator, and they can be consumed within the next 2-3 days.

The spinach, mushroom, and cottage cheese roll is not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring a healthy, colorful, and flavorful dish to your table. Enjoy your meal!