Spinach Pudding
A creamy spinach pudding combining tender spinach, cottage cheese, and Parmesan, perfect as a healthy side or light main dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix spinach, cottage cheese, salt, Parmesan cheese, and eggs until well blended.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.
- Let sit for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you're short on time, you can use fresh spinach; just sauté it briefly before mixing. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder. This dish is versatile and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, making it a perfect side dish for recipes like Creamy Vegetable Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach pudding makes a delightful side dish, perfect for pairing with grilled chicken or fish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also complements well with other vegetarian recipes, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Pudding contains roughly 428 calories, with 11g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1556mg per serving (68% 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, which should be sautéed until wilted before mixing into the other ingredients. This will help reduce excess moisture and enhance the flavor of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the casserole dish and bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.
Can I add other ingredients to the pudding?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even some cooked bacon for extra flavor. Just be cautious with moisture levels, as too much liquid can affect the texture of the pudding.
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).