Spinach with fried egg

Spinach with Fried Egg - a recipe full of flavor and health

Spring brings an explosion of greenery, and spinach is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant ingredients of this season. This spinach with fried egg recipe, also known as 'spinach with muscle', is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you're a fan of Popeye the Sailor or just want to bring a healthy dish to your table, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 3 medium onions
- 70 g tomato paste
- 50 ml olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of salt for blanching
- 1 teaspoon of mixed 10 vegetables (optional)
- 4 eggs (optional, for the egg version)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Spinach: Choose fresh, green leaves without signs of yellowing. Wash them well in at least two waters to ensure no impurities or sand remain.
2. Onion: Peel the onions and chop them finely. They will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish.
3. Eggs: If you choose to include eggs in the recipe, make sure they are fresh. Use eggs from free-range chickens for a richer taste.

Steps for preparation

1. Blanching the spinach: Put a pot of water to boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it blanch for about 2-3 minutes. This process helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients.

2. Draining the spinach: After blanching, remove the spinach with a slotted spoon and let it drain in a sieve. Once it cools slightly, chop it into smaller pieces, but not too finely. It is important to feel the texture of the spinach in the dish.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it with a pinch of salt until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for adding depth of flavor.

4. Adding the tomato paste: While the onion is sautéing, take a small cup of the water in which you blanched the spinach and add the tomato paste. Mix well to dissolve the paste in the water. Add this mixture to the skillet and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Incorporating the spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet, mixing everything well. At this point, you can also add the mixed 10 vegetables if you're using them. Lower the heat and let the dish simmer for 20-25 minutes. This is when the flavors develop and blend perfectly.

6. Preparing the eggs: In a separate skillet, you can prepare the fried eggs. You can use the same skillet in which you cooked the spinach, just make sure it's not too wet. Carefully crack the eggs and cook them until the whites are fully set, but the yolks remain slightly runny.

Serving

Serve the spinach warm, topped with a fried egg. This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of toasted bread or polenta. It's a quick, healthy, and vitamin-packed lunch or dinner.

Useful tips

- Variations: If you want to add more flavor, you can include sautéed garlic along with the onion. Garlic adds an aromatic note and pairs perfectly with spinach.
- Nutritional additives: Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, and adding eggs brings quality protein. This recipe is ideal for a healthy diet.
- The oil: Using extra virgin olive oil not only adds better flavor but also healthy fats for the heart.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative, but make sure to completely thaw and drain it well before use.
- What other vegetables can I add? Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini are excellent options to vary the recipe.
- How can I make the recipe vegan? Omit the eggs and replace the oil with a vegetable oil. You can add tofu for an extra protein boost.

Delicious combinations

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of natural yogurt or a green smoothie. Additionally, a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers can perfectly complement the meal.

So, the next time you're thinking about what to cook, don't forget about this spinach with fried egg! It's a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of spring. Enjoy your meal!