Spinach salad with eggs and telemea cheese

Spinach Salad with Eggs and Telemea: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 2-3

Who doesn't love a fresh, nutrient-packed salad? Spinach salad with eggs and telemea is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and colors that will not only delight your taste buds but also provide a healthy dose of vitamins. Whether you want to cool off on a hot summer day or have a quick and healthy lunch, this recipe is ideal for you.

A Brief History

Spinach is a well-known plant since ancient times, valued for its nutritional benefits. It is said to have been consumed by the Greeks and Romans, and today it is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Telemea, on the other hand, is a type of cheese that has its origins in pastoral traditions, made from cow, goat, or sheep milk. Together, spinach, eggs, and telemea create a perfect culinary picture, full of flavor.

Ingredients

- A good handful of fresh spinach leaves
- 1 bunch of red radishes
- 50 g cow telemea (or feta cheese if you prefer a saltier variant)
- 2-3 boiled eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for a more complex taste)

Ingredient Details

- Spinach: Choose fresh, vibrant green leaves. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making it ideal for a healthy diet.
- Radishes: These crunchy vegetables add a pleasant contrast and a spicy taste to your salad. Radishes are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
- Telemea: A creamy and salty cheese, telemea adds a flavor boost to the salad. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella.
- Eggs: Boiled eggs not only provide valuable proteins but also add a soft texture to the salad.
- Olive oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for an authentic taste and health benefits.
- Balsamic vinegar: This will enhance the flavors and add a touch of acidity, balancing the dish.

Preparation Technique

1. Wash and prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach leaves under cold water. Make sure to rinse them well, as they may contain sand. After washing, let them drain in a colander or on a kitchen towel.

2. Prepare the radishes: Wash the radishes and slice them thinly. They will add a note of freshness and crunch to your salad.

3. Boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot with cold water and bring them to a boil. Boil for 9-12 minutes, depending on how hard you want the yolks. Once boiled, immediately place them in cold water to stop the cooking process. When cooled, peel and cut them into quarters.

4. Mix the salad: In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, radishes, and diced telemea. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Add the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then gently mix everything to avoid tearing the delicate spinach leaves.

5. Finalize the dish: Arrange the cut eggs on top of the salad and serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept in the fridge for a few hours if covered.

Serving Suggestions

This spinach salad with eggs and telemea can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside a juicy chicken or fish steak. You can also accompany the salad with a slice of toasted bread or croutons for added texture.

Possible Variations

- Adding nuts: You can add some toasted walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and omega-3.
- Including other vegetables: Other seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, can add a note of freshness and color.
- Vegan cheese: If you prefer a vegan version, you can replace the telemea with vegan cheese or tofu.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent option for a healthy lunch. Spinach provides iron and antioxidants, eggs are a good source of high-quality proteins, and telemea adds calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach? While fresh spinach offers a better texture, you can also use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
2. How can I store the salad? It is recommended to consume it immediately, but if leftovers remain, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Add the eggs and dressing just before serving.
3. Can I replace the eggs? Sure, you can omit the eggs or replace them with sliced avocado for a vegan option.

Calories

One serving of this salad contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of telemea and oil used. It is a light and healthy option, ideal for any meal.

In conclusion, spinach salad with eggs and telemea is a simple and quick recipe, full of nutrients and delicious flavors. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for guests, it will surely impress and bring a touch of freshness to your table. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients and let your imagination soar in the kitchen!