Spinach Soufflé

Spinach Soufflé with Parmesan – A Delicacy Easy to Prepare

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a dish that combines refinement with simplicity, the spinach soufflé is the perfect choice. This recipe not only adds a touch of elegance to your table but also offers an explosion of flavors, being an ideal combination of healthy and tasty ingredients. Soufflés are also an excellent way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Brief History of Soufflés

Soufflés, a dish popular in international cuisine, have their roots in French culinary traditions. They have been elevated to an art form, with sophisticated cooking techniques that allow the ingredients to retain their flavor and texture. Over time, soufflés have evolved to include a variety of ingredients, from chocolate to cheese and, of course, fresh vegetables like spinach. This simple spinach soufflé recipe with parmesan will bring a touch of that elegant tradition into your kitchen.

Ingredients

- 450 grams of fresh or frozen spinach
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 2 eggs (separated yolks from whites)
- 2 tablespoons of cream
- 50 grams of grated parmesan (plus 10 grams for decoration)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste

Ingredient Details

- Spinach: Choose fresh spinach for better flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed and well-drained.
- Butter: Use quality butter to enhance the dish's flavor.
- Nutmeg: This spice adds a warm and aromatic note that perfectly complements spinach.
- Parmesan: Parmesan cheese provides a rich and savory taste. You can also use another type of aged cheese, but parmesan remains the king of this soufflé.

Step by Step – Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the Spinach: Start by washing the spinach under cold water to remove impurities. If using fresh spinach, remove the tougher stems. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the spinach, seasoning with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Let it wilt for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and reduces in volume.

2. Adding Cream and Parmesan: Once the spinach is ready, add the cream and grated parmesan. Mix well, then remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial as you don’t want to cook the eggs when you add them to the mixture.

3. Incorporating the Egg: In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and add them to the spinach mixture, mixing well. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This is the magic moment – it will give the soufflé an airy and fluffy texture. Gently fold the egg whites into the spinach mixture using a spatula, using light up-and-down motions to maintain the air in the whites.

4. Preparing the Dishes: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Choose nice porcelain dishes or ramekins, which you can grease with a bit of butter and sprinkle with grated parmesan on the walls for added flavor.

5. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared dishes, filling them to about ¾ full. Sprinkle a little grated parmesan on top of each soufflé. Place them in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water, so it reaches halfway up the sides of the soufflé dishes. This steaming cooking trick will help achieve a fine and fluffy texture.

6. Cooking: Bake the soufflés for 40-45 minutes, or until they become golden and fluffy. Do not open the oven in the first 30 minutes to avoid the soufflé collapsing.

Serving

The spinach soufflé is served warm, straight from the oven. You can add a side of fresh green salad or cherry tomatoes for a contrast of textures and flavors. Also, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top will enhance the taste. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Variations and Suggestions

If you want to experiment, you can replace spinach with other vegetables, such as broccolini, zucchini, or even mushrooms. You can also add spices like garlic or fresh herbs to further customize the flavor of the soufflé.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), making it a health-beneficial food. Combined with eggs and parmesan, this soufflé becomes a balanced meal rich in protein and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the mixture.

- How long can the soufflé be kept?
Soufflés are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

- What other recipes pair well with spinach soufflé?
This soufflé pairs wonderfully with chicken or fish steak, as well as vegetarian dishes. An arugula salad with parmesan would be an excellent choice.

Personal Note

This spinach soufflé recipe with parmesan is one of my favorites for festive meals as it brings an air of elegance without requiring too much effort. It is a wonderful way to add healthy vegetables to your daily diet, and there is only one secret: the love and attention you put into the preparation. I wish you success and good appetite!