Popeye was right, eating your spinach is good for you. The leafy green is low in fat and cholesterol and high in niacin and zinc, as well as protein, fiber,vitamins A, C, E and K, thiamin, vitamin B6, folate,calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese. A half a cup of raw spinach counts as one of your servings of vegetables for the day. Spinach is in season and available at farmers markets and grocery stores across the state.
Here is an easy spinach and cheese puffs recipe to help you get more spinach in your diet. It’s from Got to Be NC company and Flavors of Carolina participant Mimi’s Mountain Mixes for spinach and cheese puffs. Mimi’s Mountain Mixes are available statewide at grocery stores or online.
1 Package Mimi’s Mountain Mixes Beer Soft Pretzel (mixed into dough)- 1 12 ounces beer (or substitute sparkling water or Sprite)
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella (or desired) cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pepper to taste
- 1 egg for egg wash (optional)
Steps:
Make your beer pretzels according to your Mimi’s Mixes package. While pretzel dough rises, wash and chop your spinach. Cube your cream cheese and place into a bowl. Microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften. Add mozzarella, garlic powder, pepper and chopped spinach. Stir.
On a floured, flat surface, roll your dough into a rectangle. Using a fork or your hands, thinly spread the cheese-spinach mixture on the dough. Starting on one side, roll your dough carefully. Tuck in ends as necessary.
Make an egg wash with 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water or milk. Cover the edge of the dough with the egg wash and firmly press dough onto the roll. Slice about 3/4-inch thick and sprinkle with salt. Lay on a greased baking sheet and bake 10-12 minutes or until pretzel is browned and cheese is melted.
Want to know more about Mimi’s Mountain Mixes? Check out this video about how the Hendersonville Company supports women and children’s shelters.