Spinach with cheese baked

Spinach with Cheese Bake - A Healthy and Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will explore together a delicious and comforting recipe: spinach with cheese bake. This dish is not only an excellent choice for a healthy meal, but it also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of family Sunday dinners. Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable, and when combined with cheese and eggs, it becomes a true delicacy.

The history of this dish is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Spinach, known for its nutritional benefits, has been used for centuries in various recipes. This simple and quick recipe will remind you of the flavors of childhood, as well as the importance of vegetables in our diet.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg cleaned spinach (about 2-3 bags of fresh spinach)
- 500 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or telemea)
- 5 eggs
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2-3 eggs to be cracked on top of the dish

Ingredient details:

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), making it ideal for a healthy diet. Choose fresh spinach with healthy green leaves, or if opting for frozen, ensure it contains no additives.

Cheese adds a delicious creaminess and rich flavor to the dish. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a more intense taste.

Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and providing a fluffy texture to the dish. Use fresh eggs for the best results.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cleaning and washing the spinach: Start by cleaning the spinach. Wash it well in several waters to remove any impurities or sand. Once the spinach is clean, chop it finely.

2. Blanching the spinach: Place the spinach in a pot of boiling water and blanch for 10 minutes. This step helps soften the leaves and retain their vibrant green color. After blanching, drain the spinach well to remove excess water.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, add the drained spinach, grated cheese, sour cream, and eggs. Mix the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish with a little oil or butter, smoothing it out. If desired, you can crack 2-3 eggs on top of the mixture for a crispy and delicious crust.

5. Baking time: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the surface is golden and firm to the touch. The aroma that will fill your kitchen while baking is simply irresistible!

6. Serving: Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh vegetable salad or a slice of whole-grain bread. Spinach with cheese pairs excellently with a glass of yogurt or a fruit smoothie for a balanced lunch.

Useful tips:

- Make sure to drain the spinach well, as excess water can make the dish too wet.
- You can also add other ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or bell peppers, to diversify the flavor.
- If you prefer a stronger taste, try adding spices like cumin or oregano.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can frozen spinach be used?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative. Make sure it is well drained after thawing.

2. Can I add other ingredients?
Sure! You can add mushrooms, olives, or even some cherry tomatoes to add a splash of color and flavor.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of this dish?
This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, low in calories, and an excellent source of protein due to the eggs and cheese.

4. How do I store leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Possible variations:

- Spinach with cheese and quinoa: Add a cup of cooked quinoa to the spinach mixture to turn the dish into a nourishing main course.
- Spinach with goat cheese and nuts: Use goat cheese and add some nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of spinach with cheese bake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. This is an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner, rich in protein and vitamins, making it an ideal solution for days when you want to eat light and healthy.

You just finished cooking a delicious and healthy dish that will surely delight the taste buds of your loved ones! Whether you enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or integrate it into a more elaborate feast, spinach with cheese bake will prove to be an inspired choice. Enjoy your meal!