Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This egg and spinach bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cleanup. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small (8x8 inch) baking dish.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Wilt the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and bake: Gently stir the wilted spinach mixture into the egg mixture. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the feta cheese and halved cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes over the top.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bake is set and lightly golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Egg and Spinach Bake:
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach will be watery and affect the texture of your bake. Aim for wilted but still vibrant green.
- Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach offers the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the egg mixture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your preferences. A dash of nutmeg or red pepper flakes would be a delicious addition.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Egg and Spinach Bake: Add crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Egg and Spinach Bake: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Egg and Spinach Bake: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This egg and spinach bake is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea for a busy weeknight, a healthy breakfast option, or a delicious addition to your brunch spread. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish!