Mandarin Spinach
A creamy, spicy spinach dish with melted jalapeno cheese, perfect as a side or appetizer for those who enjoy bold flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the chopped spinach.
- Remove 1/2 cup of the spinach liquid.
- In a saucepan, melt the oleo and sauté chopped onion.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add evaporated milk, stirring constantly.
- Add pepper, celery salt, garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of red pepper.
- Mix in the cooked spinach and the jalapeno cheese, stirring until cheese melts and mixture is heated through.
- Pour into a baking dish, top with Fritos, potato chips, or bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider replacing the evaporated milk with heavy cream or a plant-based alternative for a vegan option. If you want extra flavor, add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just cook it down until wilted and remove excess moisture. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like Kick The Can Ice Cream for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also works well as a main course when paired with a fresh salad. For a comforting touch, enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread. This recipe complements lighter fare like Omelette With Ricotta Cheese for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin Spinach contains roughly 52 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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. Simply wash it, cook it down until wilted, and make sure to drain any excess liquid before adding it to the recipe.
What can I substitute for jalapeno cheese?
If you can't find jalapeno cheese, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as pepper jack or cheddar. For a milder flavor, mozzarella or a cream cheese blend will work, though you may want to add some diced jalapenos for heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
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).