Are you craving a delicious and healthy bread that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Spinach Bread recipe offers a delightful twist on classic Italian baking, combining the earthy goodness of spinach with the satisfying chew of homemade bread. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a quick and flavorful addition to their weekly meal plan. Whether you're searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 cup packed fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to leaven the bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese
Gently fold in the chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with beaten egg for a golden-brown crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy! This delicious spinach bread is perfect with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Don't over-knead the dough, as this can result in a tough bread.
- If you don't have sun-dried tomatoes, you can omit them or substitute with other dried herbs like oregano or basil.
- For a softer crumb, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Variations:
- Garlic Spinach Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Feta and Spinach Bread: Replace Parmesan cheese with crumbled feta cheese.
- Herb Spinach Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 5-7g Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 25-30g Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious and healthy spinach bread is a perfect example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be. It's a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of this Italian-inspired bread!