Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. of fresh spinach
- 1 lb. of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling spinach
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked spinach to the cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 240
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, but it should be thawed and drained before using.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a meaty version.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Add chopped artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid a watery dish.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Red pepper flakes
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Noir.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dish is too watery, drain the spinach well and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the cheese mixture.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the spinach thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Formaggio al Forno con Spinaci is a classic Italian dish that originated in the Tuscany region of Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory with a hint of garlic and basil.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or main dish.
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Region: Italian