The Heartwarming Story Behind the Recipe
Every family has those treasured recipes that transport us back to childhood, and these Spinach and Cheese Bars are the epitome of comfort food. Passed down through generations, this dish speaks to the simple yet profound joy of home cooking. Imagine a warm kitchen filled with the aroma of sautéed spinach, garlic, and melting cheese – a recipe that turns humble ingredients into a mouth-watering masterpiece that connects us to our roots.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Filling
- Spinach: 500g (17.6 oz / 1.1 lbs)
- Vegetable Oil: 30-45ml (2-3 tablespoons)
- Onion: 1 medium (about 150g / 5.3 oz)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, to taste
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
For the Cheese and Egg Mixture
- Eggs: 3 large
- Fresh Cow’s Milk: 120ml (4.06 fl oz)
- All-Purpose Flour: 144g (5.07 oz / 1 cup)
- Cow’s Cheese (Soft Cheese): 200g (7.05 oz)
- Grated Cheese: 100g (3.53 oz)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach
- Thoroughly wash the spinach leaves
- Chop spinach into fine pieces
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet
- Finely dice the onion
- Mince garlic cloves
- Sauté onions until translucent
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Remove from heat and let cool
- Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs
- Pour in fresh cow’s milk
- Add soft cow’s cheese
- Whisk until smooth and well combined
- Gradually sift in flour
- Mix until you have a smooth batter
- Fold in the cooled spinach mixture
- Add chopped fresh parsley
- Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
- Pour the spinach and cheese batter into the dish
- Spread evenly with a spatula
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top
- Bake to Perfection
- Place in the preheated oven
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Look for a golden-brown top
- The center should be set and slightly firm
- A toothpick inserted should come out clean
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes
- Cut into square bars
- Serve warm or at room temperature
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh parsley
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 Bar):
- Calories: Approximately 220
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 25% Daily Value
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 12 bars
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to prevent soggy bars
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the texture light
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach
- Let the bars rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier cutting
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Already vegetarian-friendly
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk and cheeses with plant-based alternatives
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked, diced chicken or ham
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or herbs like thyme
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make these bars ahead of time? A: Yes! Prepare and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Q2: How do I store leftover spinach bars? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze these spinach bars? A: Absolutely! Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month.
Q4: What can I serve with these bars? A: Great as a side dish, breakfast, or light lunch with a salad.
Q5: How can I make them more crispy? A: Brush the top with olive oil before baking for extra crispiness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Wrap individually, freeze for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes
- Prep Ahead: Prepare spinach mixture and batter separately, refrigerate, and bake when ready
Savor the nostalgia and comfort of these delightful Spinach and Cheese Bars – a true taste of home!
