Spinach-Cheddar Squares
Savory spinach and cheddar cheese squares with a flavorful egg custard base, perfect as appetizers or light snacks for cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly onto the bottom of a lightly greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Layer 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese and spinach on top of the bread crumbs.
- In a medium bowl, combine Egg Beaters, milk, onion flakes, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper; mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the spinach and cheese layers.
- Top with remaining Cheddar cheese and diced pimentos.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh garlic or onions instead of dried onion flakes. You can also substitute the fat-free Cheddar with a regular variety for a richer taste. If you're looking to increase the veggie content, chopped bell peppers or zucchini can work well too. This dish is versatile and can easily be modified to suit different dietary preferences, making it a great addition to any vegetarian recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
These Spinach-Cheddar Squares make for a delightful brunch dish or can be served as a light lunch. Pair them with a fresh side salad or some sliced tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. They also work well as an appetizer at gatherings. For dessert, consider serving with Glo'S Key Lime Pie for a sweet finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain the texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Cheddar Squares contains roughly 125 calories, with 6g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% 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! Simply sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted before layering it with the cheese and bread crumbs. This will enhance the flavor and ensure the spinach is tender, making it a great addition to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the fat-free milk with a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese for the Cheddar and Parmesan to keep the flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I make these squares more filling?
To make the squares more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or a mix of other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also serve them alongside a protein-rich side, such as grilled chicken or a hearty bean salad, to create a well-rounded 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).