Veggie Garden Bake

     I was inspired by Sarah at The Nutritionist Mom (www.noexcusesnutrition.com) to do a Quiche type bake with Spinach and Artichokes, and then things just grew from there into a complete garden of ideas.  Check her out for all her many creative delicious dishes.  Not to mention, once you throw all this yum yum into one pan, you can't help but come out a winner.  Each of the 8 servings are only 265 calories, 5g carbs, 1.7g fiber, 3.3g net carbs, 19g protein and 13.6g fat.  My biggest dilemma was to declare it a breakfast, lunch or dinner.  We actually used this Vegetarian wonder as an early dinner with steamed Broccoli, then used the leftovers in a salad, ... no regrets.  So the next time you are hankering for comfort food, try this one on for size!  So much healthy flavors all in one bite.  :)  

Ingredients for 8 servings~

8 large Eggs

1 cup Egg Whites

2 cups fresh Spinach, torn slightly

14oz can drained quartered Artichokes

1 diced fresh Red Bell Pepper

1 can drained sliced Mushrooms

1 Tablespoon chopped Garlic

4oz shredded Parmesan

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

- - - - - - - - - - - -

4oz shredded Cheddar

1 chopped Green Onion

Cilantro, to taste (optional)

     Beat all the Eggs together in a mixing bowl, stir in rest of first ingredients and pour into a cooking spray coated or parchment lined casserole pan, I used a 8X11, bake at 375 for 30-40 minutes, or until middle is set.  Remove and top with Cheddar, Onion and Cilantro, return to oven til Cheese melted.  Remove and let set for 10 minutes.  Enjoy  :)