Cheese Wild Rice Spinach
A hearty and creamy wild rice dish with spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the wild rice, sliced mushrooms, prepared mustard, and salt.
- Bring 2 1/2 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Add chopped spinach, chopped onions, and margarine to the boiling water.
- Continue boiling for about 5 minutes.
- Pour the cooked mixture over the rice mixture in the large bowl.
- Stir well and cover tightly. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and stir in cubed cream cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and rosemary to the mixture. If you don't have wild rice, a mix of brown rice and quinoa can work as a substitute. For a creamier texture, incorporate a bit of sour cream along with the cream cheese. Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you want everything heated through without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Wild Rice Spinach dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For an added protein boost, serve alongside grilled chicken or tofu. It also makes a great side dish for holiday meals or gatherings, complementing main courses like Aunt Grace'S Fried Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Wild Rice Spinach contains roughly 238 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1497mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use vegan margarine. Additionally, ensure that your mustard is vegan-friendly. These adjustments will keep the flavors intact without using animal products.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is versatile and goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light salad, some steamed vegetables, or even a hearty bread. For a complete meal, pair it with a protein like grilled shrimp or a tofu stir-fry.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).