Delight in the fusion of nutrient-rich spinach and creamy cheese wrapped in soft tortillas with this easy-to-make Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas recipe. A tribute to the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine, these enchiladas offer a vegetarian twist on a classic, making them an ideal choice for both vegetarians and cheese aficionados. Enchiladas have long held a cherished spot in Mexican culinary tradition, celebrated for their versatility and regional variations. This recipe, in particular, highlights the irresistible pairing of spinach and cheese, promising a dish brimming with flavor and satisfaction.
To complement these scrumptious enchiladas, consider serving them alongside Mexican rice infused with spices and vibrant veggies, adding a layer of complexity to your meal. A crisp side salad with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a drizzle of salsa verde can offer a refreshing balance to the dish's richness. For an extra touch of indulgence, top your enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole, enhancing their creamy texture.
Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Ingredients:
8 ounces of cream cheese
1/2 cup of sour cream
1 finely chopped yellow onion
3 cloves of garlic, minced
11 cups of fresh spinach leaves
Juice from 1/2 a lime
1 can (4.5 oz) of diced green chiles
½ teaspoon each of cayenne pepper and ground chili powder
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 can (28 oz) of green enchilada sauce
8 large flour tortillas
4 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of oil
¼ cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare: Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in oil until they become translucent.
Wilt the Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until it wilts.
Mix Flavors: In a separate bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, lime juice, green chiles, and spices until smooth. Stir in the spinach mixture.
Assemble Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a baking dish. Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture onto each tortilla, add a sprinkle of cheese, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Cover the enchiladas with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 5-10 more minutes.
Once slightly cooled, garnish your enchiladas with fresh cilantro and serve. This spinach and cheese enchilada dish is bound to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, blending simple ingredients into a feast for the senses.