Columbian Spinach
A creamy, cheesy spinach bake with a golden breadcrumb topping, perfect for 350° : :
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach as directed; drain.
- Add salt, sour cream, margarine, and cheese.
- Mix well and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the mixture bubbles and the bread crumbs are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese instead of sour cream. You can also swap out Cheddar for Gruyere for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used; just sauté until wilted. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery dish. This recipe is great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Columbian Spinach pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also works well as a filling for wraps or stuffed in baked potatoes. For a vegetarian option, serve with quinoa or rice to make it a hearty main.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Columbian Spinach contains roughly 562 calories, with 18g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (47% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2532mg per serving (110% 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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach to replace the two packages of frozen. Simply sauté it until wilted, then chop and proceed with the recipe as directed. Make sure to squeeze out any excess water to maintain the right consistency.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese substitute, Monterey Jack or a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan can work well. For a stronger flavor, try using feta or goat cheese. This alteration can give your dish a unique twist while still maintaining its creamy texture.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! Columbian Spinach is a vegetarian dish, making it a great option for meatless meals. You can enhance the nutritional value by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Serve it as a main dish or alongside other vegetarian recipes for a satisfying meal.
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).