Spinach Torta
A savory spinach and cheese torta featuring fresh garlic and Italian seasoning, perfect for brunch, lunch, or casual dinners, offering a delicious, hearty vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen spinach according to package instructions and drain well.
- In a large bowl, tear the bread into pieces (including crust) and add the cooked spinach, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- In a blender, combine eggs, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chopped onion. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the blended egg mixture over the spinach and bread mixture. Mix until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8 x 10-inch or 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, until set and golden on top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half the eggs with egg whites. If you don't have Parmesan, try using mozzarella or feta for a different flavor. Sautéing the garlic and onion before blending enhances their flavors. For added texture, incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. This torta pairs well with a fresh salad, making it a great option for a light lunch or a side dish in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach torta warm or at room temperature, cut into squares. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside pasta with spinach and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for brunch or as a light dinner option, complementing other vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be careful not to overcook, as it can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Torta contains roughly 502 calories, with 10g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium.
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 in a little olive oil until wilted, then drain and chop before adding it to the bread mixture. Fresh spinach gives a vibrant flavor and texture to the torta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the torta a day in advance. Assemble the mixture and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I serve with spinach torta?
Spinach torta pairs well with a variety of sides. A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements its richness. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple pasta dish, like linguine with no cook tomato sauce, for a complete meal.
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).