Spinach dish with nettles

Spinach and Nettle Dish – a green, healthy and flavorful delight

Total time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a meal full of vitamins that reminds us of blooming spring and the freshness of nature? Spinach and nettle dish is a traditional, easy-to-make recipe that combines these two green ingredients in a delicious and nourishing way. It is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy main dish, packed with nutrients. Additionally, spinach and nettle dish is a simple yet versatile recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences.

The history of this recipe is closely linked to culinary traditions, where fresh greens have always been appreciated for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. Spinach and nettles are vegetables with a rich history, consumed for centuries due to their high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moreover, nettles have also been used in folk medicine, and nettle dish is considered a symbol of spring.

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g fresh spinach
- 200 g fresh nettles
- 2 large eggs
- 1-2 green onions
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt, to taste

Useful tips for ingredients:

1. Spinach and nettles should be fresh and of good quality. Choose green leaves without spots or signs of aging.
2. Nettles can cause skin irritation, so remember to wear gloves when handling them.
3. If you want to add extra flavor, you can include other herbs such as dill or parsley.

Step by step for a perfect spinach and nettle dish:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by filling a pot with cold, salted water. Place it on the stove and wait for it to boil. While the water is heating, clean the spinach and nettles, removing thicker stems or damaged leaves. Wash them well in several cold waters to remove impurities and any insects.

2. Boiling the vegetables: When the water in the pot starts to boil, add the spinach and nettles. Let them boil for about 15 minutes until they become tender. Nettles may require more attention as they are more fibrous, while spinach will wilt quickly.

3. Draining and chopping the vegetables: After the vegetables have boiled, drain them well using a sieve. It is important to drain them as much as possible to avoid the dish becoming too watery. Once they have cooled slightly, chop them finely with a knife or a cutting board.

4. Preparing the base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced green onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the chopped spinach and nettles to the skillet. Mix well to combine them with the onion and garlic.

6. Incorporating the eggs: Beat the two eggs in a separate bowl, adding a pinch of salt, then pour them over the mixture in the skillet. Mix well to incorporate the eggs, then cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the eggs set.

7. Adjusting the taste: Finally, taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary. If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a dash of freshly ground pepper.

8. Serving: The spinach and nettle dish is served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil for extra flavor.

Variations and suggestions:

- If you want to turn this recipe into a heartier dish, you can add crumbled feta cheese or telemea cheese, which will melt during cooking.
- Another interesting variation is to add some chopped nuts for added crunch and a unique flavor.
- You can also experiment with other types of green vegetables, such as broccoli or leeks, which can add a variety of flavors and textures.

Nutrition and benefits:

The spinach and nettle dish is an excellent option for those looking to improve their diet. Spinach is known for its high iron, vitamin K, and antioxidant content, while nettles are rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and magnesium. This combination not only supports bone health but also helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before use to avoid excess moisture.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the recipe?
You can add grated zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture.

3. How can I store the spinach and nettle dish?
This dish stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it on low heat or in the oven.

4. What drinks can be paired with it?
To complement the meal, you can serve a glass of fresh orange juice or herbal tea, which can improve digestion and bring extra freshness.

In conclusion, the spinach and nettle dish is a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a touch of health to your plate. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add your own variations to make it even more special. Enjoy your meal!