Description
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk (any type of your choice)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes for 8-10 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potatoes, sautéed spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and
milk. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and top with fresh thyme if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 200 per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Prep & Boil: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Boil cubed sweet potatoes in salted water for 8-10 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly.
- Sauté Spinach: In the same pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Let any excess moisture evaporate.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mash the drained sweet potatoes. Add the sautéed spinach, crumbled feta, Parmesan, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to the greased dish. Smooth the top, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Rest & Serve: Let the bake rest for 5-7 minutes after removing from the oven. This allows it to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various meals.
- Serve as a hearty vegetarian main with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
- Offer as a flavorful side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or lamb chops.
- Top with a fried or poached egg for a protein-packed brunch option.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before serving.
How-to Summary
Boil and mash sweet potatoes. Sauté spinach. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Transfer to a baking dish, top with oil and thyme, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use frozen spinach? Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid to prevent a soggy bake. Use about 10 oz of frozen spinach.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or ricotta are excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use a firm, crumbly plant-based cheese.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warm to maintain texture.
Is the milk necessary? The milk adds creaminess, but you can omit it or substitute with vegetable broth, a non-dairy milk, or a tablespoon of Greek yogurt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Watery Spinach: Failing to properly drain sautéed or thawed spinach will make the bake soggy.
- Over-boiling Potatoes: Cooking the sweet potatoes until mushy can lead to a gluey texture. They should be just fork-tender.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Serving immediately from the oven causes it to fall apart. Letting it rest is crucial for clean slices.
- Underseasoning: Sweet potatoes need ample seasoning. Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato and Spinach Bake is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that is simple to prepare. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfect meal that delights as a main or side. Its versatility with ingredients and pairings makes it a reliable recipe for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting bake straight from your oven.
