Cheesy penne puff – RECEPT

Cheesy penne puff

serves: 4-6
suitable for freezing: NO
calories: 490
fat: 31g
saturated fat: 17g

–          250g robust fresh spinach

–          salt and ground black pepper

–          100g penne or similar pasta

–          60g butter

–          60g plain flour

–          300ml milk

–          Freshly grated nutmeg

–          100g mature Cheddar cheese, grated

–          3 large eggs, separated

–          4-6 gratin dishes, buttered

1.     Set the oven to 190°C or Gas Mar 5. Put a baking sheet in to heat up. Place a pan on the heat and add the washed spinach, cover and cook for a couple of minutes, until just wilted. Drain well and set aside.

2.     Put the pan back on the heat, pour in boiling water, add some salt and the pasta and cook until just tender. Drain well. Run cold water through it and set aside.

3.     Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium-sized pan, add the flour to make a thick paste and cook for a couple of minutes. Gradually add the milk, beating well to make a thick sauce. Cook for a few minutes, then add some grated nutmeg and plenty of seasoning, the cheese, the egg yolks, pasta and chopped spinach.

4.     Whisk the egg whites until firm, beat a spoonful into the cheese sauce, then fold in the rest. Divide between the dishes, put them on the hot baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes until risen and golden.