Spinach Provencial
A flavorful spinach dish with Parmesan, onion, and garlic, baked to perfection. Perfect for vegetarian meals, served with rice for a hearty, nutritious dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the spinach carefully or defrost thoroughly.
- In a large kettle, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic for a few minutes until the onion is transparent.
- Add spinach to the kettle.
- Cover tightly and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir into the onion mixture.
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter.
- When the spinach has cooled slightly, stir in 2 beaten eggs and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over the top and dot with butter.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or even a blend of shredded Italian cheeses can work well. Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, but ensure it's thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture. Mixing in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes can add a nice Mediterranean touch.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Provencial pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve it with roasted vegetables or alongside a classic Greek Spinach Pita for a delightful Mediterranean feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best texture, the oven is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Provencial contains roughly 918 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (120% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a mix of shredded Italian cheeses. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?
While fresh spinach is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can use frozen spinach as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and well-drain it to prevent excess water in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it's chilled from the fridge.
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).