Spinach Maria Recipe 🌿
Overview:
Spinach Maria is a delightful dish that’s not just for spinach enthusiasts; it’s a hit with everyone! Perfectly complementing grilled steaks, chicken, or pork, this creamy spinach concoction is a crowd-pleaser. With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Recipe Category: Vegetable
- Keywords: < 30 Mins, Stove Top
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0)
- Calories: 356.3
- Fat Content: 35.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 22g
- Cholesterol Content: 98.7mg
- Sodium Content: 349.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 6.1g
- Fiber Content: 3.5g
- Sugar Content: 1.1g
- Protein Content: 8.1g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter 🧈
- 2 cups frozen chopped spinach 🥬
- 1 block cream cheese 🧀
- 1 can artichoke hearts 🍃
- Lemon pepper (to taste) 🍋
- Chili powder (to taste) 🌶️
- Salt (to taste) 🧂
Instructions:
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Melt Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a pan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely until it’s sizzling and fragrant.
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Thaw Spinach: While the butter is melting, thaw the frozen chopped spinach. You can expedite this process by using a microwave. Once thawed, add the spinach to the pan with the melted butter.
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Add Cream Cheese: Cut the block of cream cheese into chunks and add them to the pan with the spinach and butter. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cream cheese to melt and blend with the spinach.
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Incorporate Artichoke Hearts: Cut up the artichoke hearts into smaller pieces and add them to the pan. Stir well to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
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Season to Taste: Season the mixture with lemon pepper, chili powder, and salt according to your preference. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning; it’s what brings out the flavors in this dish!
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lemon pepper, chili powder, or salt until it reaches the perfect balance of flavors.
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Optional Finishing Touch: For an extra flavor boost, consider sprinkling the Spinach Maria with Parmesan Cheese before transferring it to the oven. Broil it for a few minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Serve: Once the Spinach Maria is heated through and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates alongside your grilled steaks, chicken, or pork for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your perfect flavor profile.
- Make It Ahead: Spinach Maria can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stove or in the oven.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: This creamy spinach dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast. Use it to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 356.3
- Fat: 35.1g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Cholesterol: 98.7mg
- Sodium: 349.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.1g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 1.1g
- Protein: 8.1g
Conclusion:
Spinach Maria is not your average spinach dish; it’s a flavor-packed sensation that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re grilling up a storm or simply looking for a delicious side dish to accompany any meal, this creamy spinach creation delivers on taste, texture, and satisfaction. Give it a try and watch as even the most skeptical spinach eaters come back for seconds!