This easy appetizer uses store-bought stuffing mix as the base. Frozen spinach and other pantry staples make this recipe perfect for any last-minute gathering.
Spinach, with its nutrient-rich profile, is valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for several health benefits. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating spinach into your diet:
- Blood Tonic: Spinach is considered a blood tonic. It is believed to nourish the blood, promoting healthy circulation and addressing conditions associated with blood deficiency. This includes symptoms such as pale complexion, dizziness, and fatigue.
- Cooling Properties: In TCM, foods are categorized based on their thermal nature, and spinach is considered cooling. This makes it suitable for individuals with excess heat conditions, as it may help balance the body’s internal temperature and alleviate symptoms associated with heat, such as inflammation.
- Supports Liver Health: TCM places great importance on liver health, considering it vital for overall well-being. Spinach is believed to have a liver-cleansing effect, supporting the organ in its functions, including detoxification and the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy).
- Moistens Dryness: Spinach’s hydrating properties are beneficial for addressing conditions related to dryness in TCM. It is thought to moisten dryness in the body, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing dry skin, eyes, or other symptoms associated with insufficient bodily fluids.
- Rich in Iron: Iron deficiency is a common concern, and spinach, being rich in iron, is considered a valuable food for addressing conditions associated with blood deficiency, such as anemia.
SERVES 10 | READY IN 45 MINS | PREP TIME 15 MINS | COOKING TIME 30 MINS
Ingredients:
- Avocado Oil, Olive Oil, or Ghee (to coat the baking sheet)
- 2 (16 oz) bag frozen cut-leaf spinach, thawed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 (12 oz) pkg seasoned stuffing cubes
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a baking sheet with your choice of oil or ghee. Microwave the spinach according to package directions. Drain and squeeze out as much excess moisture from spinach as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach with the onion, eggs, melted butter, garlic powder, and thyme. Season well with salt and pepper. Stir to mix. Transfer half the spinach mixture to a food processor, and pulse 45 sec., until smooth. Return processed mixture to bowl. Stir in the Parmesan and stuffing mix.
- Shape mixture into 1½-inch balls and place balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, until cooked through.
Nutrition information:
Calories 260kcal (13%)
Carbs 22.0g (7%)
Fat 7.0g (10%)
Saturated Fat 0.0g (<1%)
Sodium 350mg (15%)
Protein 12.0g
Sugar 2.0g
Fiber 3.0g
Cholesterol 110mg
Recipe by Savory
