Spinach and Cheese Squares
This recipe came from a local hospital newsletter. I believe because of the flour, it would be considered Phase 2. [but if you use arrowroot, it should be fine in Phase 1] I haven't made it without the flour, but I think it would work without it since it is such a small amount and then it would be Phase 1. I substitute whole wheat flour for the all purpose called for in the recipe and I also cut the margarine down to 2 tablespoons without a problem. The first time I made it, I mistakenly mixed the parmesan cheese in instead of sprinkling it on top. When I made it again, I decided I liked the cheese mixed in with a little on the top better. I also cut down on the pepper a bit. The taste is pronounced with a 1/2 teaspoon so add to your taste.
This goes together really quickly and makes a nice breakfast, side dish or snack. Just heat a serving in the microwave and you are good to go. It keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Spinach and Cheese Squares
2 10oz. packages frozen chopped spinach
1 pound small curd, low-fat cottage cheese
1/3 cup feta or cheddar cheese (I use low-fat)
16 oz. Egg substitute (Egg Beaters type) or 8 large eggs
1/4 chopped scallions or small onion
3 Tablespoons melted margarine (without trans fat)
2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 Tablespoon all purpose flour (sub whole wheat) [In P1, just sub arrowroot to thicken]
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dill
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Thaw, drain and press spinach in a sieve to squeeze out excess water. In a large bowl, mix egg substitute, cottage cheese, feta or cheddar cheese, and scallion. Add melted margarine, flour, pepper, and dill. Fold in spinach. Spray a 9 inch by 9 inch or a 12 inch by 8 inch pan with non-stick spray. Pour mixture into pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake for about 50 minutes. Allow to cool a bit and cut into 12 servings. Refrigerate leftovers. The calorie count is listed at 94 per serving, but that is with full fat cheese, so a little less with low-fat.
I enjoy this very much and I hope you will, too!
MJMS
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