Stir Fried Spinach with Baked Brie Cheese Salad
Introduction
Embark on a delightful culinary adventure with our Stir Fried Spinach with Baked Brie Cheese Salad. This enticing dish, inspired by a beloved local restaurant, combines the earthy flavors of fresh spinach with the luxurious creaminess of baked brie, creating a vibrant salad that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Best of all, the garnish can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without any last-minute stress.
Cooking Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 371.3 |
| Total Fat | 30.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 56.7 mg |
| Sodium | 475.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g |
| Sugars | 4.2 g |
| Protein | 17.1 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Tomatoes, diced |
| 1 ½ | Sweet onions, thinly sliced |
| 1 ½ | Fresh cilantro, chopped |
| 1 | Canola oil |
| 4 | Olive oil |
| 1 | Garlic, minced |
| 1 | Dried red pepper flakes |
| Salt and pepper to taste | |
| 1 | Brie cheese, 8 oz wheel |
| 2 | Fresh spinach, cleaned and stems removed |
Instructions
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Prepare the Garnish:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced sweet onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss the ingredients together gently to ensure even distribution. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to serve. This garnish can be prepared several hours in advance or even the day before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
-
Prepare the Spinach and Brie:
- Begin by thoroughly washing and stemming the fresh spinach. Ensure that the spinach is dried completely; excess moisture can lead to a soggy salad, which we want to avoid. Set the prepared spinach aside for later use.
-
Prepare the Brie:
- Take the brie cheese and carefully cut it in half crosswise to create two thin discs. Next, cut each disc into six pie-shaped sections, yielding a total of twelve wedges. Place the brie wedges on a baking sheet that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray, ensuring they have enough space to melt evenly.
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will allow the brie to melt perfectly without overcooking.
-
Cook the Spinach:
- In a large skillet, heat the canola and olive oils over medium heat. Once the oils are hot, add the minced garlic and the dried red pepper flakes, stirring them together until fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
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Add the Spinach:
- Add the cleaned spinach to the skillet and quickly toss it in the oil and garlic mixture. The goal is to heat the spinach just enough to wilt it slightly while still maintaining a vibrant green color and some crunch, which should take no more than a minute or two.
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Bake the Brie:
- While the spinach is cooking, place the baking sheet with the brie in the preheated oven. Bake the brie for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and begins to ooze but is not completely melted. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
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Assemble the Salad:
- On a large serving platter, arrange the sautéed spinach mixture, creating a beautiful bed for the brie. Gently transfer the melted brie wedges, cut side up, and place them atop the spinach.
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Add the Garnish:
- Finally, finish the dish by spooning the prepared tomato and onion garnish over the brie and spinach. The freshness of the garnish adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor to the dish.
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Serve:
- Your Stir Fried Spinach with Baked Brie Cheese Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy this delightful dish warm, relishing the creamy brie combined with the fresh spinach and zesty garnish. This salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a lovely balance of textures and flavors.
Conclusion
This delightful Stir Fried Spinach with Baked Brie Cheese Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its combination of creamy, savory, and fresh elements, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Perfect for entertaining or as a nutritious side dish, it brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Enjoy the process, share it with loved ones, and savor the deliciousness of your culinary creation!
