Spinach pudding

Spinach Pudding - A Green and Satisfying Delicacy

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 6-8

Welcome to the culinary world of healthy and delicious recipes! Today we aim to prepare a spinach pudding, a recipe that combines the refined taste of fresh ingredients with the comfort of a hearty meal. This pudding is not only a savory dish but also a nutritious option, ideal for the whole family.

A Brief History of Spinach Pudding

Spinach pudding is a recipe that has evolved over the years, found in many culinary cultures as a way to utilize seasonal vegetables. Spinach, a nutrient-rich plant, has been appreciated since ancient times for its beneficial properties. This pudding stands out for its versatility, being served as both an appetizer and a main course.

Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh spinach (or 500 g frozen spinach)
- 1 can of tomatoes (approximately 400 g)
- 5 large eggs
- 7 slices of bread (preferably whole grain)
- 300 g cheese (of your choice, but aged cheese adds a special flavor)
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1 tomato (for decoration)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for added flavor)

Nutritional Details

This spinach pudding is not only tasty but also rich in vitamins and minerals. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, while eggs provide high-quality protein. Cheese adds calcium, and whole grain bread contributes to digestive health.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Wash and prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it well to remove any impurities. Boil it in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and let it cool. If using frozen spinach, thawing and squeezing out excess water is essential.

2. Cut the bread: Cut the slices of bread into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will help the mixture absorb well.

3. Prepare the tomatoes: Heat a little olive oil in a pan. Add the canned tomatoes, finely chopped garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous and aromatic.

Step 2: Assembling the Pudding

1. Layer the ingredients in the baking dish: In a baking dish, place the bread cubes, followed by the boiled and drained spinach. Pour the tomato mixture over these and gently mix to combine.

2. Beat the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs well, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the beaten eggs over the mixture in the baking dish and gently stir to distribute the eggs evenly.

3. Add the cheese: Grate half of the cheese and incorporate it into the mixture. This will add creaminess and a savory flavor.

Step 3: Decorating and Baking

1. Decorate: Slice the zucchini and tomato thinly. Place them on top of the pudding for an attractive appearance.

2. Bake the pudding: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the baking dish in a larger dish with water (bain-marie) and put it in the oven. Bake the pudding for about 30 minutes or until it is nicely browned.

3. Finishing: With 10 minutes left before removing the pudding from the oven, add the remaining grated cheese on top for a delicious and crispy layer.

Serving and Suggestions

After the pudding is baked, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. You can serve the pudding with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast. This can be a perfect lunch or a light, savory, and nutrient-rich dinner.

Possible Variations

- Add protein: You can include diced ham or cooked chicken to make the pudding even more filling.
- Experiment with cheese: Replace the cheese with feta for a salty and creamy note.
- Incorporate other vegetables: Grated carrots or bell peppers can be added for extra vitamins and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent choice. Make sure it is well-thawed and drained before use.

2. How can I make the pudding less moist?
Ensure that the bread is well-dried and that the spinach is completely drained of water before assembling.

3. Can I prepare the pudding in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding a day ahead, and the next day you can bake it. It will taste even better!

Calories

A serving of spinach pudding has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion served. It is a healthy choice, full of nutrients, that won't affect your diet!

I hope this spinach pudding recipe inspires you to cook with love and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. Bon appétit!