Spinach with poached egg

Spinach with Poached Egg: A Healthy and Delicious Recipe

Welcome to the culinary world, where every ingredient has its story! Today, I invite you to prepare a simple yet flavorful and nutritious dish that everyone will appreciate: spinach with poached egg. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, based on fresh and healthy ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

A Brief Story About Spinach

Spinach is a versatile ingredient that has been valued since ancient times for its nutritional properties. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and calcium, spinach is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. Combined with poached eggs, it becomes a protein and antioxidant-rich meal, ideal for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

- For the spinach
- 2 kg of fresh green spinach
- 2 leeks
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 4-5 tomatoes (preferably ripe)
- 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

- For the poached eggs
- 2 fresh eggs
- 3 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
- 1 liter of water

Step by Step: How to Prepare Spinach with Poached Egg

1. Preparing the spinach
Start by cleaning and washing the spinach thoroughly. It is essential to remove all impurities, as spinach can contain sand. Once washed, dry it with a clean towel or let it drain well.

2. Sauté the leek and garlic
In a non-stick pot, heat 6 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and chopped garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn slightly golden and the flavors are released.

3. Add the spinach
Now it's time to add the spinach to the pot. You can cut it into large strips, as you prefer, but make sure it is not chopped too finely to preserve the texture. Stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Season
After about 6-7 minutes, when the spinach has started to wilt, add salt and pepper to taste. Here you can be creative! If you like more intense flavors, add a pinch of nutmeg or even chili flakes, depending on your preferences.

5. Add the tomatoes
Slice the tomatoes and add them to the pot. Let them cook together with the spinach for 3 minutes until they become soft and release their juice.

Preparing the Poached Eggs

1. Boil the water
In another pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the vinegar. This will help coagulate the egg and prevent the egg white from spreading.

2. Create a whirlpool
Using a spoon, stir the water in the pot to create a whirlpool. This is the moment when you will add the egg. Crack a fresh egg into the center of the whirlpool and let it cook for 3 minutes.

3. Remove the egg
Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg from the water and let it drain a bit. If you’re not serving it immediately, you can place it in a bowl of cold or ice water to stop the cooking process. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in warm water for 1 minute.

Assembling the Dish

On a platter, place the spinach mixture with tomatoes and carefully lay the poached egg on top. This will add a contrast of texture and a delicious flavor. You can sprinkle a bit of feta cheese or grated parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is wonderful served simply, but you can accompany it with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread or a fresh green salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade would perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Poached Eggs: If you’re new to making poached eggs, you can use a special poaching device that will help you achieve perfect results effortlessly.
- Variations: You can experiment with adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to diversify the flavor. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is spinach healthy?
Yes! Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

2. Can I replace poached eggs with something else?
Of course! If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the eggs or replace them with cooked tofu.

3. What other recipes can I try with spinach?
Spinach is delicious in salads, soups, or even in pies. You can also try a recipe for spinach and ricotta lasagna.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This spinach with poached egg recipe is low in calories, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the oil used and optional additions. Spinach is an excellent source of fiber, making it ideal for healthy digestion. Eggs, on the other hand, provide quality protein necessary for muscle recovery and overall health.

This recipe is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to enjoy a healthy meal full of vitamins. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!