Description
Spinach delight bars blend creamy cheese and earthy greens into a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired appetizer. Savory layers of flaky pastry and rich filling promise a delectable experience for hungry guests seeking comfort and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
- 1 package (12 oz/340 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
- 1 stick (113 g) butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
Instructions
- Warm the kitchen oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, creating an ideal baking environment for the savory bars.
- Whisk softened butter and eggs in a spacious mixing bowl until the mixture transforms into a creamy, homogeneous texture.
- Gradually incorporate milk, flour, baking powder, and salt into the butter-egg base, stirring methodically to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Delicately integrate chopped spinach and cubed Monterey Jack cheese, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture for consistent flavor in each bite.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking vessel by lightly coating with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote easy removal.
- Carefully spread the verdant and cheesy batter across the pan, creating an even layer that promises uniform cooking.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven, allowing the bars to bake for 40-45 minutes until the surface achieves a golden-brown hue and the center sets firmly.
- Remove from the oven and permit the dish to cool slightly, allowing the ingredients to settle and flavors to meld together.
- Slice into petite squares, serving warm for a melty experience or chilled for a refreshing appetizer perfect for gatherings or quick snacks.
Notes
- Versatile Snack Perfect for Any Occasion: These cheesy spinach bars work wonderfully as a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or party appetizer that everyone will love.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare these bars in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them an excellent option for busy individuals seeking convenient, nutritious meals.
- Vegetable Boost: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, these bars offer a delicious way to incorporate more greens into your diet without compromising on taste.
- Cheese Selection Flexibility: While Monterey Jack is recommended, you can easily swap with cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese to customize the flavor profile.
- Room Temperature Serving: These bars taste delightful both warm and cold, providing flexibility for different serving preferences and settings.
- Simple Ingredient Substitutions: For gluten-free options, replace regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend without significantly altering the recipe’s texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg