Spinach with mushrooms in white sauce

Delicious spinach and mushroom recipe in white sauce

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world, where I invite you to discover a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe: spinach with mushrooms in white sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, and it can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. Spinach, a nutrient-rich ingredient, blends perfectly with the flavor of mushrooms, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also healthy.

A brief story about the recipe

Spinach with mushrooms is a dish that has been appreciated over time due to its versatility. Whether we prepare it with cream or milk, this dish reminds us of the importance of consuming green vegetables. Cooking with spinach is not just a healthy choice, but also an opportunity to add color and nutrients to our meals.

Ingredients

- 200 g fresh spinach
- 100 g sliced mushrooms (champignon or any other preferred mushrooms)
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 ml milk (or cream, to taste)
- 1/2 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 garlic cloves, minced

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by washing the spinach well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dirt. Place the spinach in a pot of boiling water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil for 2-3 minutes until the leaves become tender. Then, remove the spinach with a slotted spatula and let it drain in a colander.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. At this point, you can add the minced garlic if you choose to use it, and sauté for another minute.

3. Adding the mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they become golden and release their juices. They add a delicious texture to your dish.

4. Incorporating the spinach: Once the mushrooms are ready, add the drained, chopped spinach and mix well. Let them cook together for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

5. Preparing the white sauce: In a small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of water until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the milk (or cream), stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Pour this mixture into the skillet over the vegetables and mix well.

6. Finalizing the dish: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice that the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little milk to thin it out. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Practical tips

- Fresh vs. frozen spinach: If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Varied mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to achieve varied flavors.
- Adding cheese: A delicious variation is to add goat cheese or mozzarella on top before serving for an extra creaminess.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or a slice of toasted bread. You can also serve it as a filling for pies or pancakes.

Nutritional values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent option. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
- You can add zucchini, grated carrots, or even bell peppers to diversify the flavors and texture.

3. How can I turn this recipe into a main course?
- You can add grilled chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option, providing an extra protein boost.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- Yes, you can substitute milk with plant-based milk (almond or soy) and omit the flour or use a gluten-free version.

5. How can I store the dish?
- The dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Personal note

This spinach and mushroom recipe in white sauce is one of my favorites because it reminds me of Sunday meals spent with family. Every bite brings back the joy of cooking and sharing special moments with loved ones. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and put your personal touch on this dish. Enjoy your meal!