Savory Spinach Souffle
A light, airy spinach souffle infused with Parmesan and nutmeg, perfect for elegant dinners or brunch, combining creamy, cheesy flavors with tender spinach.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 1 1/2-quart souffle dish or casserole; coat with 2 tablespoons of shredded Parmesan cheese.
- In a saucepan, sauté sliced green onion in margarine or butter until tender.
- Blend in flour and cook, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add milk, salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Blend in drained or cooked spinach.
- Cool the mixture slightly.
- Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Fold egg whites into the spinach mixture gently.
- Pour into the prepared dish.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 35 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter soufflé, ensure the egg whites are beaten until stiff peaks form, but don't overbeat them. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option, and any cheese like cheddar or feta can work if you want to experiment with flavors. If using fresh spinach, blanch it before adding to the mixture to enhance its flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach soufflé with a light salad for balance, such as a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette. It pairs beautifully with Potato N' Cheese Casserole for a comforting meal. For a complete brunch, consider offering it alongside Pinehurst Muffins for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soufflé in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, as microwaving can make it rubbery. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it shortly after baking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Spinach Souffle contains roughly 219 calories, with 10g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2015mg per serving (88% 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, you can use frozen spinach. Just ensure it's fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before incorporating it into the mixture. This will prevent the soufflé from becoming soggy.
What can I serve with the soufflé?
The savory spinach soufflé pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy potato dish. It also complements brunch items like quiches or muffins.
How do I know when the soufflé is done?
The soufflé is done when it is puffed up, golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking, as this can cause it to deflate.
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).