Danielle’s Spinach Squares: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

The first time I tasted Danielle’s Spinach Squares, I was at a summer barbeque, juggling a paper plate piled high with the usual fare. Then, I spotted them: unassuming green squares nestled amongst the burgers and potato salad. One bite, and I was hooked! The savory, cheesy spinach filling, baked to golden-brown perfection, was a delightful surprise. I knew instantly I needed the recipe – and I haven’t stopped making them since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding defrost time)
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes (excluding defrost time)
• Yields: 24 squares
• Serves: 24

Ingredients

• 20 ounces frozen spinach, chopped
• 1 lb cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup skim milk (or whichever milk you have on hand)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup shallot, chopped (may also use diced onion)
• Cooking spray

Equipment Needed

• 9x2x13 inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Colander or strainer
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by defrosting the frozen spinach. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

2. Once defrosted, it’s crucial to drain the spinach thoroughly. Place the spinach in a colander or strainer. Then, working in handfuls, squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is essential to prevent the squares from becoming soggy. Reserve the nutrient-rich spinach water for future use in cooking pasta or rice if desired.

3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the squares bake evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown crust.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach with all the remaining ingredients: shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, milk, eggs, baking powder, salt, and chopped shallot (or diced onion). Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

5. Spray a 9x2x13 inch baking pan generously with cooking spray. This will prevent the spinach squares from sticking to the pan and make them easier to remove once baked.

6. Pour the spinach mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.

8. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the spinach squares cool completely before cutting them into squares. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to handle.

9. Cut the cooled spinach mixture into 24 squares for hors d’oeuvres.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra cheesy flavor, use a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
• To enhance the flavor of the shallots (or onions), sauté them lightly in a little butter or olive oil before adding them to the spinach mixture.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded cheese to save on prep work.
• These spinach squares can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the mixture, pour it into the baking pan, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• If the top of the spinach squares starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
• To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking pan halfway through the baking time.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Danielle’s Spinach Squares are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties and gatherings, a delicious side dish for lunch or dinner, or even a savory snack.

Serve them warm or at room temperature. They are also excellent as a filling for omelets – simply cut a square into small pieces and add it to your favorite omelet recipe.

Store leftover spinach squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw the frozen squares in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	115.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	62 g	54%
Total Fat	6.9 g	10%
Saturated Fat	4.2 g	20%
Cholesterol	35.6 mg	11%
Sodium	212.9 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	6.5 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	0.3 g	1%
Protein	7.2 g	14%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Use a plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, in place of skim milk.
• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables to the spinach mixture, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spinach mixture for a little heat.
• Herbaceous: Mix in some fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for added flavor.
• Italian Inspired: Substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella and add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with other types of cheese like feta, parmesan, or pepper jack.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh spinach. Make sure to wash it thoroughly, remove the stems, and cook it until wilted before squeezing out the excess moisture.

Q: How do I prevent the spinach squares from being watery?
A: The key is to thoroughly drain and squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach after defrosting. This will ensure that the squares are not soggy.

Q: Can I freeze these spinach squares?
A: Yes, these spinach squares freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: What can I serve these spinach squares with?
A: These spinach squares are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. They pair well with a variety of meals, such as grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.

Final Thoughts

Danielle’s Spinach Squares are a true crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply looking for a tasty and nutritious snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, go ahead and give it a try – I’m confident you’ll love them as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. And, of course, I’d love to hear your feedback! Bon appétit!