Baked spinach

Oven-baked spinach with creamy sauce - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you're looking for a simple and quick recipe that's full of flavor, this oven-baked spinach with creamy sauce will surely become your favorite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, with spinach as the main ingredient, rich in nutrients. Plus, served with a delicious sauce, you'll transform a simple side dish into a true feast.

Ingredients:
- 400 g frozen spinach
- 2 medium onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 700 ml water (or vegetable broth for a more intense flavor)
- 200 ml cooking cream
- 100 g feta cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of grated cheese (parmesan or mozzarella) for topping

Instructions:

1. Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. This will help with even cooking and make the process quicker. If you have frozen spinach, let it thaw beforehand, or you can put it directly in the pan, but it will take a bit longer.

2. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onions over medium heat. Cook them for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial for adding rich flavor to the dish.

3. Once the onions are ready, add the two tablespoons of flour. Mix well to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to brown it.

4. Gradually add the water (or vegetable broth) to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to boil and thickens slightly.

5. Add the frozen spinach to the sauce, mixing well to incorporate it. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook on low heat for 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg.

6. In a separate bowl, mix the cream with the crumbled feta cheese (if using). This combination will add a special creaminess to the dish.

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Pour the spinach mixture into a baking dish, and on top, add the cream and feta mixture. Sprinkle grated cheese over the top for a delicious golden crust.

8. Bake the dish in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and crispy.

Serving suggestion: This oven-baked spinach pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or basmati rice. You can also add some toasted almonds for extra crunch.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to change the flavor. Additionally, you can add some cooked chicken breast cubes or mushrooms to turn this dish into a main course.

This oven-baked spinach with creamy sauce is an ideal recipe for a quick yet elegant dinner that will impress both family and friends. Enjoy every bite and savor the healthy benefits of spinach!