Spinach Fantastic
A cheesy spinach and rice casserole with a savory mustard flavor, perfect as a comforting side dish or vegetarian main for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Press thawed spinach between paper towels to remove excess water.
- Combine cooked rice, prepared spinach, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, melted margarine, chopped onion, and dry mustard in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart shallow casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or a can of cream of mushroom soup to the mixture. If Monterey Jack isn't available, any mild cheese like cheddar or mozzarella works well. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions until translucent before adding them to the mix. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread, similar to what you might serve with Macaroni Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a main course or as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the casserole. For a delightful dessert, finish the meal with a slice of Lemon-Orange Cake to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Fantastic contains roughly 306 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% 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! You'll need about 12 ounces. Sauté the fresh spinach in a little olive oil until wilted, then squeeze out excess water before adding it to the mixture. This can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute margarine with vegan butter and use a plant-based cheese alternative. Additionally, replace the dry mustard with a vegan-friendly seasoning mix for flavor. This will keep the integrity of the dish while aligning with vegan dietary preferences.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
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).