Spinach Timbale
A savory spinach timbale featuring wilted spinach, Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses, and a delicate egg and milk custard, perfect for elegant brunches or light dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Butter a souffle dish and dust with 1/4 of bread crumbs.
- Wash spinach and remove stems. Wilt in a dry frying pan.
- Rinse wilted spinach under cold water; squeeze dry in a towel and chop fine.
- In a skillet, melt butter or safflower oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine cooked spinach with sautéed onion and garlic.
- In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and mix with milk, grated Gruyere, Parmesan, sea salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add bread crumbs to the mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the spinach mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared souffle dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can substitute the Gruyere with any mild cheese, like mozzarella or even a dairy-free alternative. If you're short on time, pre-washed spinach can save some prep work. Adding a bit of lemon zest can brighten the flavors. Also, try incorporating some finely chopped herbs for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This spinach timbale pairs beautifully with Herbed French Bread Chips for a delightful crunch. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider drizzling a light vinaigrette over the salad to complement the dish's rich flavors. It also works well as a side for grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the timbale in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Timbale contains roughly 665 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before adding to the mixture. This will prevent excess moisture, ensuring that your timbale sets properly.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake right before serving. This can save time, especially if you're entertaining guests.
What can I serve with the spinach timbale?
Consider pairing it with a light tomato sauce or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. It also complements well with sides like White Steamed Rice or a crisp green salad, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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).