Cheesy Spinach Open Toast Recipe
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Indulge in a delectable treat with this Cheesy Spinach Open Toast—a delightful combination of fresh spinach, garlic, and creamy mozzarella on a crisp toast. Perfect as a light snack, appetizer, or even as part of a weekend brunch, this recipe brings together the richness of melted cheese with the health benefits of spinach. The vibrant green spinach, sautéed with garlic and onions, pairs beautifully with a creamy sauce topped with gooey mozzarella.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach (finely chopped) | 3 cups |
| Garlic (finely sliced) | 4 cloves |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh cream (low fat) | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk (low fat) mixed with cornflour | 1/2 cup mixed with 2 tsp cornflour |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Red chilli flakes | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper powder | To taste |
| Mozzarella cheese (grated) | 3/4 cup |
| Whole wheat brown bread or baguette | 8 slices |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | ~10 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~34 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~5 g |
| Fat | ~14 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6 g |
| Cholesterol | ~25 mg |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Calcium | ~200 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
Begin by heating the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely sliced garlic and sauté until it becomes aromatic and golden. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the onion softens slightly. -
Cook the Spinach:
Once the onions are ready, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Toss the mixture over high heat for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and cooks down. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. -
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the milk with the cornflour and pour this mixture into the pan with the spinach. Stir continuously and cook the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Then, add the fresh cream and continue to cook on high flame for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and creamy. Stir often to avoid burning. -
Cool the Mixture:
Once the mixture has thickened and become creamy, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes before proceeding. -
Prepare the Toasts:
While the spinach mixture cools, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the whole wheat brown bread slices or baguette slices on a baking sheet. Spread a generous spoonful of the spinach mixture evenly on each slice of bread. -
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese generously over the spinach mixture on each slice of bread. Make sure the cheese is spread evenly to ensure all areas melt beautifully. -
Grill the Toasts:
Place the prepared toasts into the preheated oven. Grill for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the toasts from the oven and serve immediately. These Cheesy Spinach Open Toasts make a perfect pairing with a glass of wine or a side of Burnt Garlic Pasta with Mushrooms for a sophisticated weekend meal or a casual brunch with friends.
Tips:
- You can also use whole wheat baguette slices for a more rustic look and feel.
- For an added twist, sprinkle some extra chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika over the cheese before grilling for a smoky, spicy kick.
- If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, feel free to add a layer of cooked chicken or bacon before topping with the cheese for extra flavor.
These cheesy, creamy toasts are a simple yet indulgent treat that everyone will love, and they are so easy to whip up for a quick snack or a savory appetizer to impress guests. Enjoy!
