Creamy Spinach and Almond Bake

This savory dish combines the wholesome goodness of spinach with the delightful crunch of almonds, all wrapped in a creamy cheese sauce. It's an excellent choice for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a hearty side. The dish starts by blanching fresh spinach, which retains its rich green color and freshness. Almond slices add a nutty flavor and crisp texture, complementing the smoothness of the cream sauce. The use of mountain cheese or Gouda gives it a deliciously rich and slightly tangy taste. A hint of garlic and a dash of lemon juice brighten the flavors beautifully. This bake is both satisfying and nutritious, rich in protein and vitamins. It's a perfect dish for anyone looking to incorporate more greens into their diet. Enjoy it warm from the oven for a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg fresh spinach leaves
• 150 g sweet cream
• 75 g grated mountain cheese or Gouda cheese
• 40 g almond slices

Spices

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper

Sauces

• 1/8 liter vegetable broth

Others

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Wash the spinach thoroughly and remove any large stems.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Blanch the spinach for 1 minute, then rinse with cold water and drain well.
4. Grease a shallow, heatproof baking dish with butter.
5. Peel and crush garlic, then mix with the spinach. Toast almond slices in a dry pan until golden.
6. Arrange spinach in the baking dish and sprinkle with half of the almond slices.
7. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
8. In a pot, melt the butter. Add flour and cook until golden, stirring constantly.
9. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and cream, stirring until smooth.
10. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for about 5 minutes until thickened.
11. Season the sauce with lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
12. Stir in the grated cheese and mix until melted.
13. Pour the sauce over the blanched spinach in the baking dish.
14. Sprinkle the remaining almond slices on top.
15. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve hot for a delicious meal.

Tips

• Substitute gouda with cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Use toasted pine nuts for a change from almonds.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 290 per serving
• Protein: 11g
• Fats: 23g
• Carbs: 10g

Variations

• For a vegan version, replace cream with almond milk and cheese with nutritional yeast.
• For added protein, include cooked chicken or tofu before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Best Places

• The Greenhouse Restaurant - Known for innovative and plant-based cuisine. Location: 123 Forest Avenue, Portland, USA.
• Café Spinach & Almond Joy - Celebrated for its cozy atmosphere and delicious bakes. Location: 45 Garden Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
• Herbivore’s Delight Bistro - Famous for vegetarian masterpieces. Location: 78 Plant Road, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Organic Delicacies Café - Specializes in organic and sustainable dishes. Location: 233 Eco Street, Vancouver, Canada.
• Leafy Bites Bistro - Offers a fresh and vibrant menu. Location: 59 Leaf Street, Dublin, Ireland.
• Vegan Palette Eatery - Praised for colorful and creative dishes. Location: 102 Vegan Way, Berlin, Germany.
• Earthly Feasts Restaurant - Known for diverse and global plant-based dishes. Location: 342 Earth Blvd, London, UK.
• Gourmet Greens Café - Popular for its gourmet vegetarian offerings. Location: 67 Nature Drive, San Francisco, USA.
• The Plant Kitchen - Recognized for high-quality, plant-forward cooking. Location: 34 Wellness Ave, Barcelona, Spain.
• Rooted Bistro - Cherished for warm ambiance and delicious fare. Location: 90 Root Road, Cape Town, South Africa.