Sure, let’s dive into the delightful realm of Spinach-Rice Casserole, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. This recipe is a fusion of wholesome ingredients, blending the earthy flavors of spinach and brown rice with the creaminess of tofu and the richness of Swiss cheese, all harmonized with the aromatic accents of onion, garlic, and herbs.
Spinach-Rice Casserole Recipe
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Onion |
| 1 | Garlic clove |
| 1 can | Italian-style tomatoes |
| 1 tsp | Dried oregano |
| 1 tsp | Basil |
| 1 block | Tofu |
| 8 oz | Cooked brown rice |
| 2 cups | Frozen chopped spinach |
| 1/2 cup | Swiss cheese |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 tsp | Pepper |
| 1 tbsp | Sesame seeds |
Instructions:
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion turns tender and translucent, but not browned.
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Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour in the can of Italian-style tomatoes along with their juices. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Prepare Tofu Mixture: Meanwhile, prepare the tofu mixture. Place the block of tofu in a food processor or blender. Process or blend until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the smooth tofu mixture to the saucepan with the tomato mixture. Stir in the cooked brown rice, frozen chopped spinach, half of the Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
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Grease Baking Dish: Grease a 2-quart rectangular baking dish lightly with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
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Assemble Casserole: Spoon the spinach and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the edges are bubbling and slightly golden.
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Final Touches: Once the casserole is done baking, sprinkle the remaining Swiss cheese evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and a delightful crunch.
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Serve: Remove the Spinach-Rice Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but it also reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 296.3
- Fat: 11.9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.7g
- Cholesterol: 12.4mg
- Sodium: 602.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 36.9g
- Fiber: 5.8g
- Sugar: 6.5g
- Protein: 14g
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced carrots.
- Make it vegan by using dairy-free cheese or omitting the cheese altogether.
- Serve this Spinach-Rice Casserole as a standalone meal or pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and nutritious dinner.
With its wholesome ingredients and savory flavors, this Spinach-Rice Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delicious and nutritious option that’s both satisfying and comforting. Enjoy every bite of this hearty and wholesome casserole! 🍲
