Hawaii Spinach Loaf
A comforting Hawaiian-style spinach loaf with creamy Velveeta and a fragrant blend of sautéed vegetables, perfect for a quick, hearty lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté onion, celery, green pepper, and crushed rosemary in margarine until softened.
- Cook frozen spinach according to package directions, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Add Velveeta cheese to the sautéed vegetables and stir until melted and well combined.
- Fold in the cooked spinach and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and bake until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of hot sauce to the sautéed vegetables. If Velveeta isn't available, a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work as a substitute. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen by sautéing it briefly before adding it to the cheese mixture. This Hawaii Spinach Loaf is a great way to use up leftover Hawaiian bread too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hawaii Spinach Loaf warm, perhaps with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Edward Asner's Ambrosia Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or a bowl of soup to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until heated through. This keeps the loaf moist and delicious, perfect for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaii Spinach Loaf contains roughly 1482 calories, with 18g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2760mg per serving (120% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach and cheese mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and then transfer it to the loaf pan for baking when you're ready. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can easily substitute butter or a plant-based butter alternative for margarine in this recipe. Using olive oil is another option for a healthier fat. Each will add a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Hawaii Spinach Loaf is a vegetarian recipe since it contains no meat products. However, ensure that the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians, as some cheese may contain animal rennet.
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).