Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner idea? Look no further! This spinach and egg bake recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend brunch. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly impressive, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a satisfying meal on your own.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried oregano, pinch of red pepper flakes for extra zing
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great!) 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.
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Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
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Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices.
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Combine and Bake: Add the cooled spinach mixture to the egg mixture and stir gently to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg bake is set and lightly golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
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Serve and Enjoy: Let the spinach and egg bake cool slightly before slicing and serving. This delicious dish is equally enjoyable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Tips for the Best Spinach and Egg Bake:
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach will be mushy. Aim for wilted but still slightly vibrant green.
- Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach provides the best flavor and texture.
- Grease your skillet: This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the baked egg.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Add some cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, cheddar, or Gruyere.
- Include other vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add protein: Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham would make this a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 6 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams
This spinach and egg bake is a fantastic example of a healthy meal that's quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect option for those seeking easy recipes and delicious dishes. Enjoy this versatile recipe and discover your own favorite variations!