Spinach Soufflé

Spinach Soufflé Recipe - A Delicious Vegetarian Dish from France

Region / culture: France | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spinach soufflé is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of spinach with creamy cheeses and savory spices to create a dish that is sure to impress.

History

The exact origins of spinach soufflé are unclear, but soufflés in general have been a popular dish in French cuisine for centuries. The light and airy texture of a soufflé is achieved by incorporating beaten egg whites into a flavorful base, creating a dish that is both elegant and delicious.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
0.25 cup grated onion
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
0.5 cup mayonnaise
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 eggs, beaten
0.25 tsp white or black pepper
dash of nutmeg

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine thawed and drained spinach with onion.
In another bowl, beat the remaining ingredients and blend in the spinach mixture.
Spoon the mixture into a lightly buttered 3.5 qt (3.31 liter) crock pot (or a souffle dish that fits in a larger crock pot).
Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Substitute feta cheese for the cheddar for a tangy twist.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach before adding it to the mixture to prevent the soufflé from becoming watery.

- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be gentle when folding in the beaten egg whites to maintain the soufflé's airy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spinach soufflé as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites to stiff peaks is essential for achieving a light and airy soufflé.

- Cooking the soufflé in a water bath can help prevent it from cracking or collapsing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter flavor.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise for a lighter dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the spinach mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the mixture to come to room temperature before baking for best results.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished soufflé with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the spinach soufflé with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spinach soufflé contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spinach soufflé contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spinach soufflé contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spinach soufflé contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. This dish is a great way to incorporate these essential nutrients into your diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and cheddar cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Spinach soufflé is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. It is a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of spinach in a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Spinach soufflé is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a warm summer day and I had just returned from a trip to France. My friend Marie had invited me to her home for a dinner party, and she served us the most delicious spinach soufflé I had ever tasted. I was immediately enchanted by the light and fluffy texture, the rich flavor of the spinach, and the golden crust that formed on top. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Marie graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and offering tips and tricks to ensure success. I was so grateful for her guidance and eager to try it out in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building within me. I carefully folded in the egg whites, being careful not to deflate them, and watched as the soufflé rose beautifully in the oven.

When it was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss – the soufflé was light and airy, yet packed with flavor. The spinach added a subtle earthiness, while the cheese brought a creamy richness that tied it all together. I was overjoyed at how well it turned out and couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I've made this spinach soufflé countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own taste. I've added extra herbs and spices, experimented with different cheeses, and even tried incorporating other vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes. But no matter how many variations I've made, the original recipe from Marie will always hold a special place in my heart.

I've shared this recipe with so many people over the years, passing it down through the generations and watching as it becomes a beloved favorite in their own kitchens. It brings me so much joy to see others enjoying something that has brought me so much happiness over the years.

One of my favorite memories involving this spinach soufflé was when my granddaughter, Sarah, asked me to teach her how to make it. She had always been curious about my cooking and loved helping me in the kitchen whenever she could. I was thrilled at the opportunity to pass down this recipe to her and show her the magic of creating something delicious from scratch.

As we gathered the ingredients and began the process of making the soufflé, I could see the same excitement and anticipation in Sarah's eyes that I had felt so many years ago. She was a quick learner, eager to absorb every bit of knowledge I had to offer. I showed her how to separate the eggs, whip the whites to stiff peaks, and gently fold everything together to create the perfect mixture.

When the soufflé emerged from the oven, golden and puffed up to perfection, Sarah's face lit up with joy. She couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of her labor. As she took her first bite, a smile spread across her face, mirroring my own sense of satisfaction and pride.

From that day on, Sarah became the official spinach soufflé maker in our family, always taking charge of preparing it for special occasions and gatherings. It warms my heart to see her carrying on the tradition and sharing this recipe with her own friends and loved ones.

As I sit here now, reflecting on all the memories and moments that this spinach soufflé has brought into my life, I am filled with gratitude. It has been a constant source of joy and connection, bringing people together around the table and creating lasting bonds through the shared experience of a delicious meal.

I am so grateful to have stumbled upon this recipe all those years ago, and for the generosity of Marie in sharing it with me. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of good food to bring happiness and warmth into our lives. And I hope that, as I continue to pass it down through the generations, it will bring the same joy and fulfillment to others as it has to me.