Spinach pudding

Spinach pudding with tomatoes and cheese

A savory and comforting recipe, spinach pudding is perfect for a light lunch or a delicious dinner. This pudding combines the creamy texture of beaten eggs with the fresh taste of spinach and tomatoes, all topped with a golden cheese crust. It's a versatile recipe that can be served either warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for any occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh spinach (or 500 g frozen spinach)
- 1 can of Cirio tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 5 large eggs
- 7 slices sliced bread (preferably wholemeal or rye)
- Olive oil (to taste)
- 300 g grated cheese (preferably a strong-tasting cheese such as sheep's or cheddar)
- 1/2 courgette
- 1 tomato (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. If using fresh spinach, rinse it well under cold running water, then boil it in a large pot of salted water for about 2-3 minutes, until the leaves soften. Drain the spinach and leave to cool, then chop finely. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain well.

2. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature to get a crispy golden crust on the pudding.

3. Cut the bread slices into small cubes. Place them in a large yenne dish, previously greased with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. This is an important step, as it will add extra flavor and help achieve a nice texture.

4. In a pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the flavors release. Then add the Cirio tomatoes, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Once done, take the pan off the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.

5. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk until frothy. Add the chopped spinach and cooled tomato sauce, stirring well to combine the ingredients. This is the time to make sure all the flavors come together perfectly.

6. Gradually incorporate half of the grated cheese into the mixture, stirring gently so as not to destroy the air incorporated into the eggs.

7. Pour the egg, spinach and tomato mixture over the bread cubes in the yenne dish, making sure each piece of bread is well coated. This step is essential for an even and delicious texture.

8. For an eye-catching look, decorate the pudding with thin slices of zucchini and tomato, placing them on top of the mixture.

9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake the pudding in a bain-marin for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

10. Continue baking for a further 10-15 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and browned. It is important to watch this step carefully to avoid burning the cheese.

11. Once the pudding is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serving warm is ideal, but room temperature is delicious too!

Serving suggestions: Spinach pudding can be served plain or with a fresh green salad, drizzled with a lemon and olive oil dressing. It's also a great choice with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Possible variations: You can replace spinach with other vegetables, such as broccoli or courgette, depending on your preferences. You can also add spices like nutmeg or sweet paprika to intensify the flavors. If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the eggs and use tofu or a mix of seeds to bind the ingredients.

Nutritional benefits: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body against free radicals. Moderate in calories, this pudding is a healthy and nutritious choice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is a great alternative and can save time in preparation. Just make sure you drain it well to avoid a too wet pudding.
2. How can I make the pudding creamier? Add a little milk or cream to the egg mixture for a richer texture.
3. Is this recipe suitable for making in advance? Absolutely! The pudding can be made a few hours ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.

I hope you'll try this spinach pudding recipe and enjoy every bite! Enjoy!