Enchanting Spinach Ricotta Bake 

Enchanting Spinach Ricotta Bake

Savor the creamy delight of this enchanting bake that combines fresh spinach with ricotta cheese, resulting in a low-carb dish that is both nutritious and incredibly tasty. Ideal for any occasion, it is a recipe you won’t want to miss!

Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Total Time: 55-65 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh spinach

1 cup ricotta cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a spacious bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until the mixture is smooth.

Gently fold in the fresh spinach and chopped basil until everything is thoroughly combined.

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the edges start to bubble.

Let it cool for a few moments before serving.

Relish this wholesome and flavorful low-carb bake!

Tips and Variations

1. Fresh vs Frozen Spinach: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg just until combined. Overmixing can make the mixture too dense.
3. Use High-Quality Cheese: Use fresh, high-quality ricotta and Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
4. Add Some Spice: Add some dried or fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to give the bake an extra boost of flavor.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the spinach ricotta mixture and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Assemble and bake the next day.
6. Use Different Types of Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese to create a unique flavor profile.
7. Add Some Crunch: Top the bake with some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Spinach Not Cooked Through: Make sure to cook the spinach until it’s wilted and heated through.
2. Ricotta Mixture Too Runny: Add a little more Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs to thicken the mixture.
3. Bake Too Brown: Cover the bake with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with Pasta: Serve the bake with some pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad for a complete meal.
2. Use as a Side Dish: Serve the bake as a side dish for a holiday meal or special occasion.
3. Make Individual Servings: Divide the bake into individual servings and serve as a brunch or breakfast dish.

Per Serving (serves 6-8):

Calories: 250-300
Protein: 20-25g
Fat: 15-18g
Saturated Fat: 8-10g
Carbohydrates: 10-12g
Fiber: 2-3g
Sugar: 5-6g
Sodium: 350-400mg