This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a quick and delicious dish that combines the fresh taste of spinach with the creamy richness of cheese. With its light, fluffy texture and delightful flavors, it makes for a perfect breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Spinach: 1 bunch, chopped
- Eggs: 3 large
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: To taste
- Garlic powder: To taste
- Oil: 1/4 cup (50 ml)
- Milk: 1/2 cup (80 ml)
- Cream cheese: 1 tablespoon
- Flour: 150 grams (approx. 1 1/4 cups)
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (8 grams)
- Triangular cheese slices: As needed for topping
Directions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Chop the onion and spinach finely.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oil, milk, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Combine with Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and spinach to the egg mixture. Stir well to distribute evenly.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Place the triangular cheese slices on top of the mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve:
- Allow the bake to cool slightly, then cut into squares or slices. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread for a hearty brunch.
Cooking Tips:
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the bake light and fluffy.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the mixture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or feta.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide a good source of protein.
- Rich in Vitamins: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium.
- Balanced Meal: This bake offers a balanced combination of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Can be Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative to make it gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or microwave.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients, this dish comes together in no time.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the recipe with different vegetables or cheese to suit your taste.
- Perfect Anytime: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner—this bake is versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Cheese Savory Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its fluffy texture, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?
- Yes, fresh spinach works perfectly. Just be sure to wash, chop, and drain it well before adding.
- Can I substitute the cream cheese with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as an alternative.
- What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
- Any melting cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or feta will work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
- How do I prevent the bake from sticking to the dish?
- Grease the baking dish well with oil or butter, or line it with parchment paper.
- Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
- Yes, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
- Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
- You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Bake when ready to serve.
- How do I know when the bake is done?
- The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Can I use low-fat ingredients?
- Yes, you can use low-fat milk, cheese, and cream cheese to reduce the calorie content.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?