Baked Tamari Mushrooms With Fresh Spinach Salad

Baked Tamari Mushrooms With Fresh Spinach Salad

Formal Explanation:

Baked Tamari Mushrooms with Fresh Spinach Salad is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the umami-rich flavors of marinated mushrooms with the freshness of spinach salad. This dish is a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean flavors, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture. It’s an ideal choice for both vegetarians and mushroom enthusiasts.

Casual Explanation:

Alright, picture this: Baked Tamari Mushrooms with Fresh Spinach Salad is like a flavor explosion in your mouth! It’s a mix of savory, juicy mushrooms and crispy, fresh spinach. It’s like a delicious meeting between Asia and the Mediterranean, and it’s perfect if you’re into mushrooms or just want a healthy, tasty meal.

History:

The history of this dish is a blend of culinary traditions. Tamari, a type of soy sauce, is commonly used in Japanese cuisine for its rich, salty flavor. Mushrooms have been enjoyed in various cuisines for centuries. Spinach salad is a staple in Mediterranean cooking. The fusion of these elements likely emerged in contemporary fusion cuisine, where chefs experiment with combining diverse culinary traditions to create unique dishes. While there isn’t a specific historical account for this exact recipe, it reflects the global influence on modern cooking.

Components:

For the Baked Tamari Mushrooms:

• 12 oz (340g) of fresh mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 2 tablespoons of tamari sauce (gluten-free soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Fresh Spinach Salad:

• 4 cups of fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Marinate the Mushrooms: In a bowl, combine the tamari sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms and trim the stems. If they are large, you can cut them into halves or quarters for even cooking. Toss the mushrooms in the marinade until they are well coated.

4. Bake the Mushrooms: Place the marinated mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof dish. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Prepare the Salad: While the mushrooms are baking, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).

6. Dress the Salad: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until the salad is well coated.

7. Serve: Once the mushrooms are done baking, remove them from the oven. Place the hot, baked tamari mushrooms on top of the fresh spinach salad.

8. Enjoy: Serve your Baked Tamari Mushrooms with Fresh Spinach Salad immediately, and savor the delicious fusion of flavors and textures.

Time Needed:

The preparation time for this dish is approximately 10-15 minutes, and the baking time for the mushrooms is around 20-25 minutes. So, you can expect to have this scrumptious meal ready in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a relatively quick and healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts for Baked Tamari Mushrooms With Fresh Spinach Salad:

Please note that the following nutrition information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Baked Tamari Mushrooms (per serving):

• Calories: 80-100 kcal
• Protein: 4-6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Total Fat: 6-8 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 450-500 milligrams (mainly from tamari sauce)
• Potassium: 300-400 milligrams
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 0-2%
• Iron: 4-6%
• Vitamin C: 2-4%

Fresh Spinach Salad (per serving):

• Calories: 50-60 kcal
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 3-5 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Total Fat: 4-6 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 100-150 milligrams
• Potassium: 300-400 milligrams
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 4-6%
• Iron: 10-15%
• Vitamin C: 15-20%

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it suitable for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

2. Protein: It provides a moderate amount of protein, primarily from the mushrooms and spinach, which can help with satiety and muscle maintenance.

3. Low in Saturated Fat: The recipe is low in saturated fat, promoting heart health.

4. High in Fiber: The spinach salad contains dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and providing a feeling of fullness.

5. Rich in Antioxidants: Spinach is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which may help protect cells from damage.

6. Minerals: Both components offer essential minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium in moderate amounts.

7. Low Cholesterol: This dish is naturally cholesterol-free.

8. Sodium Consideration: The sodium content may be relatively high due to tamari sauce. If you need to reduce sodium intake, consider using a lower-sodium soy sauce alternative.

9. Vitamins: It provides a reasonable amount of vitamin C (from spinach) and iron (from spinach and mushrooms), aiding in immune function and oxygen transport in the body.

10. Versatile and Balanced: This recipe is versatile and can fit into various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Remember that actual nutrition may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes. Adjustments can be made to cater to specific dietary needs and preferences.