Spinach dish

Spinach with Fried Eggs – A Vitamin-Packed Recipe

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

A Healthy Green Story

Spinach, a nutrient-rich ingredient, has been valued throughout history for its health benefits. This green vegetable, rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, is a reliable ally in any diet. Whether you desire a light meal or a side dish for other recipes, spinach is an excellent choice. Adding fried eggs transforms this dish into a delicious feast full of flavor.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1.5 kg fresh spinach (make sure it is young and beautifully green)
- 1 large onion (choose a sweet onion for a more pleasant taste)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (for a touch of color and a slightly sweet taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can also use tomato puree)
- 1-2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the sauce)
- Oil (olive or sunflower)
- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by cleaning the spinach. I recommend removing the thicker stems and keeping only the leaves. In a large bowl, fill with cold water and submerge the spinach for 30 minutes. This process will help remove any dirt and impurities. After this time, take the spinach out of the water and drain it well. Rinse it twice to ensure it is clean.

2. Blanching the spinach: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, submerge the spinach leaves and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. This will help maintain the vibrant color and nutrients. After blanching, drain the spinach and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely with a knife, according to your preferences.

3. Cooking the vegetables: In a saucepan, add oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the vegetables soften, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the spinach: Once the onion and bell pepper have softened, add the chopped spinach to the saucepan. Cover with water, using the liquid in which you blanched the spinach. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes, then add the tomato paste and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

5. Thickening the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a little water to avoid lumps. Pour the flour mixture into the saucepan and stir. Let it boil for another 5 minutes to thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

6. Serving: The spinach dish can be served warm, plain, or with fried eggs on top. The eggs add extra protein and a creamy texture. If you want a more flavorful version, you can add some slices of feta cheese or grated parmesan on top.

Useful tips:

- Fresh vs. frozen spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Vegan option: You can omit the fried eggs and add tofu or chickpeas for an alternative protein source.
- Creative serving: This dish can be served alongside a portion of rice or fresh bread. Add olive oil and lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium, while being low in calories. A serving of this dish contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the oil used and the amount of tomato paste. It is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight or adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.

2. What other spices can I add? You can experiment with garlic, black pepper, or even a dash of chili for an extra kick.

3. How can I store leftovers? The spinach dish can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Adopt this simple recipe to bring a touch of greenery and health into your daily diet. A delicious and vitamin-packed culinary experience awaits you! Enjoy your meal!