SPINACH 

Spinach is easy to care for, fast to grow, and delicious to eat. It will need frequent watering and good drainage for best results. Spinach has many beneficial minerals and antioxidants that help the body fight disease and keep the immune system strong. This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and is great for digestive health.

Planting your Spinach!

  • To plant your spinach seeds, use your finger to draw a line 1/2 to 1 inch deep in the soil.  Space seeds 2 inches apart, then cover with soil. Water seeds daily. “Once spinach is established at 4-5 inches tall, you can reduce watering to fit your garden’s needs. After the seeds have germinated and are growing sprouts, thin the plants to 3-4 inches apart to eliminate crowding.

Harvesting

  • Spinach can be harvested as it grows. Small leaves will take about 30-35 days from seed to harvest and large leaves will take approximately 40-45 days. Harvest the outer leaves first to allow the plant to continue growing.
  • Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy vegetables since it contains an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and even protein, while containing very few calories.

Recipe

SPINACH DIP

Ingredients:

10 ounces fresh spinach leaves
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
1/8 cup of fresh chives finely chopped
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

  • Steam the spinach in a pot until wilted. Let cool, then wring out the excess water. Coarsely chop the spinach into small pieces.
  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a small baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Put the cream cheese, sour cream, chives, cooked spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese and 3/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese in a bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Spread the mixture into the prepared dish. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted. Turn the oven to broil and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese begins to brown.
  • Top with parsley and serve.

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