Spinach, Ham, and Brown Rice Casserole

This recipe has become a favorite amongst the Bermans. I served it at Mother's Day Brunch and we've had it for dinner several times in the last few months (versatile, no??). It's nice, because you can make the rice ahead of time and the then just throw everything together as you go. The recipe is an adaptation of Martha Stewart's recipe from Everyday Food. Sorry, I can't remember the month and I have no idea where my copy went. Besides, you know I made my own little changes as I went, so here's an idea of what I did.

2 pkg frozen spinach
2 eggs
1/2 c. milk
sea salt
fresh ground pepper
fresh grated nutmeg (just a pinch)
2-3 c. cooked brown rice
1 c. cheese (I recommend sharp cheddar, brie, or gruyere) + 1/4 c. for top, cubed or grated
2 lg Vidalia onions, cut in bite-size slivers
1/2 c. dry white wine
1 c. ham, finely chopped


Preheat over to 375deg.

Thaw the spinach and drain. Beat eggs with milk and seasoning. Add spinach, cheese, and rice; mix. Notice in the picture above, I did not beat the eggs first. I wasn't the end of the world -- it would just be easier to keep the texture consistent if the eggs are beaten before mixing. Also, I used brie as my cheese, which made for a great flavor, but was harder to cut and mix in that sharp cheddar would be.

Saute onions in butter and oil (I saute with 2tbsp olive oil + 1tbsp butter for flavor). Once translucent to slightly brown, add 1/2 c. white wine and cook about 5min, allowing alcohol to cook off and wine to reduce. Add ham, heat through and crisp up a bit.

Mix onions and ham with spinach mixture. Pour into greased casserole dish (I can't specify size. I don't measure, so I'm never sure what size I'll need until it's all assembled. 9"x13" is a safe bet), top with additional cheese and bake for ~30min. Serve hot, while cheese is still perfectly melted.

I didn't manage to get a picture of the final product before it was devoured, but I think that's just a testament to how delicious this recipe is!

Browning slivered onions

The spinach mixture, fully mixed