Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups uncooked cergi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Colander
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3. Add the cergi to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
4. Drain the cergi in a colander and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked cergi to the bowl and stir to combine.
7. Add the spinach and feta cheese and stir to combine.
8. Pour the cergi mixture into the prepared baking dish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cergi is golden brown and the spinach is wilted.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 4
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Cergi: Any other short pasta, such as penne or macaroni, can be used in place of the cergi.
- Olive oil: Any other neutral-flavored oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, can be used in place of the olive oil.
- Feta cheese: Any other crumbly cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta salata, can be used in place of the feta cheese.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the feta cheese and add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese and use vegan cheese in place of the Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Tricks:
- To ensure the cergi cooks evenly, stir it occasionally while it is boiling.
- To make the dish spicier, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the cergi in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, on top.
- Garnish the cergi with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
Pairings:
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- This dish also pairs well with a light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- A green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cergi is not cooked through after the recommended cooking time, add a few tablespoons of water to the baking dish and continue baking until the cergi is cooked through.
Food Safety Advice:
- Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
Food History:
Cergi is a type of short pasta that originated in the Mediterranean region. It is traditionally served with a variety of sauces and vegetables.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with notes of garlic, oregano, and feta cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
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Region: Greek