Spinach On The Side
A flavorful spinach side dish with savory onion, water chestnuts, and cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings seeking a creamy, crunchy complement.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, dry onion soup mix, chopped water chestnuts, sour cream, chopped celery, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with a layer of bread crumbs and a layer of Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons melted butter over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until the top is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you don't have water chestnuts, chopped almonds or pecans can provide a similar crunch. For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder. This dish can also be customized to include other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Explore more vegetarian recipes for delightful variations.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach dish makes a great side for roasted chicken or grilled fish, balancing out the meal with its creamy texture. It can also be served as a dip with crusty bread or crackers. Pair it with a fresh salad for a light lunch or as part of a potluck spread. It complements American recipes beautifully, particularly during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach On The Side contains roughly 104 calories, with 7g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (13% 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 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then chop and drain excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will give your dish a fresh taste and vibrant color.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free bread crumbs at most grocery stores or make your own by processing gluten-free bread. Alternatively, crushed gluten-free crackers or oats can also work well as a substitute.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and bake when ready to serve. This makes it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.
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).