Spinach Parma
Spinach Parma is a savory, cheesy quiche filled with tender spinach, Swiss cheese, and a blend of seasonings, all encased in a crunchy crouton crust. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeal to vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the seasoned crushed croutons and melted oleo; press into a quiche pan to form the crust.
- Mix together 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, spinach, cottage cheese, cubed cheese, eggs, chopped onion, sour cream, minced garlic, and salt until well blended.
- Spoon the filling mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35 minutes until set and golden.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cottage cheese or substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add some chopped nuts to the filling. For enhanced flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before mixing them in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spinach Parma warm as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Zucchini 'Crab' Cakes for a delightful vegetarian feast. Consider adding a light vinaigrette or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or cover and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Parma contains roughly 406 calories, with 14g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1683mg per serving (73% 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 10 oz. of fresh spinach. Just cook it down until wilted, then drain and chop before mixing it into the filling. This will give a fresher taste and vibrant color to your dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Spinach Parma gluten-free, simply substitute the seasoned crushed croutons with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as cheese and cottage cheese, are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Spinach Parma up to a day in advance. Assemble it in the quiche pan, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time if it's chilled.
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).