Nana Anker'S Spinach Cheese Appetizers
Creamy spinach and cheese appetizers with a savory blend of Monterey Jack or Muenster, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering cheesy, spinach-filled bites everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the margarine.
- Beat the eggs.
- Combine melted margarine, beaten eggs, flour, salt, baking powder, grated cheese, and chopped spinach in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for 35 minutes.
- Allow to cool for 30 minutes.
- Cut into 1-inch squares.
- May be frozen and reheated at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the margarine with Greek yogurt, which will keep the texture moist while reducing fat. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour for added nutrition. Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach, just ensure it’s well-drained. Adding herbs like dill or chives can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach cheese appetizers make a fantastic starter or can be served as a party snack. Pair them with a light salad and a tangy dipping sauce for a complete meal. They also work well as a side for soups or stews, complementing flavors beautifully. For a fun twist, serve alongside the Microwave Date Or Raisin Squares for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the squares in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. These appetizers can also be frozen before baking; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana Anker'S Spinach Cheese Appetizers contains roughly 319 calories, with 4g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1102mg per serving (48% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterey Jack and Muenster are recommended for their melting qualities, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly, so choose a cheese that you enjoy.
How do I ensure the spinach is properly incorporated?
To ensure the spinach mixes well, chop it finely before adding it to the batter. If using fresh spinach, you can sauté it briefly to reduce moisture, which helps prevent a soggy texture in the final dish.
Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, bake them and store the cooked squares in the refrigerator or freezer, reheating them as needed for convenience.
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).