Spinach Mena (Passover)

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Advanced
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A savory Sephardic spinach and cottage cheese casserole layered with matzah, perfect for Passover.
Spinach Mena (Passover recipe image
Spinach Mena (Passover recipe image
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Spinach Mena (Passover)

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 6 Calories: 4.9

Description

This Spinach Mena is a comforting, savory casserole that blends tender spinach with creamy cottage cheese, fresh herbs, and matzah. Originating from Sephardic tradition, it serves as a delicious Passover-friendly alternative to lasagna. The dish features a rich, herbaceous filling bound by eggs and matzah meal, creating a satisfying texture that holds together beautifully when baked. Topped with a golden matzah crust and melted parmesan, it offers a delightful contrast of soft greens and crispy edges. Ideal for holiday dinners or hearty weeknight suppers, this vegan-friendly (if cheese is omitted) side dish brings warmth and home-style flavor to any table. It is simple to prepare using pantry staples and frozen spinach, making it a reliable choice for busy cooks.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  2. Oil an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan.
  3. Squeeze thawed spinach thoroughly to remove excess water, then chop finely.
  4. In a medium bowl, mix chopped spinach, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped green onion, 2 cups cottage cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon matzah meal.
  5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Fill one small bowl with hot water and a second bowl with the remaining 2 eggs beaten with 2 teaspoons water.
  7. Dip one matzah cracker at a time into the hot water bath and let it soak for 2 minutes to soften.
  8. Remove matzah from water, blot with a paper towel, then dip into the egg mixture.
  9. Line the bottom of the prepared pan with one softened matzah.
  10. Split two matzah crackers in half and line the sides of the pan with them.
  11. Pour the spinach mixture into the pan, filling it evenly.
  12. Top with the remaining matzah cracker.
  13. Brush the top matzah with 1 tablespoon oil.
  14. Bake for 30 minutes.
  15. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese over the top.
  16. Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly browned.
  17. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm; the dish will firm up as it cools.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 4.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 16.8mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 0.8g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 0.1g
Protein 0.6g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

The filling can be varied by adding cooked meat with tomatoes and spices for a heartier version.

Ensure spinach is thoroughly squeezed to prevent a watery casserole.

Keywords: spinach, mena, passover, sephardic, matzah, casserole, cottage cheese, herbs, side dish, middle eastern, baked, vegetarian
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