MAD ABOUT "MEAT" LOAF

Mad About

Meat loaf will be wearing new accessories this year - spinach, carrots, zucchini and whole grains. Grind the nuts in a food processor but be sure to add a little flour so you don't end up with nut butter. -Susan Preston, Eagle Creek, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 1h20m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2/3 cup mashed cooked carrots
1 slice whole wheat bread, torn into pieces
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup grated zucchini
1/2 cup tomato sauce, divided
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3 tablespoons ground flaxseed
3 tablespoons ground walnuts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried sage leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

In a large saucepan, bring 1/2 in. of water to a boil. Add spinach; cover and boil for 3-4 minutes or until wilted. Drain and squeeze dry., In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, carrots, bread, eggs, zucchini, 1/4 cup tomato sauce, Parmesan cheese, onion, flaxseed, walnuts, oil, garlic, seasonings and spinach. Pat into a greased 8x4-in. loaf pan; top with remaining tomato sauce., Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 45 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake 4-7 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 198 calories, Fat 14g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 94mg cholesterol, Sodium 451mg sodium, Carbohydrate 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 11g protein.