Spinach with chicken... or without

Spinach with Chicken - A Dish Full of Greens and Flavor

After a long and cold winter, our bodies crave freshness, and spinach is a perfect ingredient to enrich our meals with vitamins and minerals. This simple and delicious spinach with chicken recipe can be prepared with or without meat, to satisfy everyone's tastes. I invite you to discover the necessary steps to create a savory dish that can be served both warm and cold.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1.5 kg fresh spinach, cleaned
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 10 garlic cloves, peeled
- 50 ml milk (or water for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 300 g boneless chicken breast (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
To start, clean the spinach by removing the thicker stems and any wilted leaves. Garlic, an essential ingredient in this recipe, not only brings a unique flavor but also numerous health benefits. Slice 5 garlic cloves thinly and set them aside for later. The other 5 cloves will be turned into a paste to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Spinach
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as the bitter taste of burnt garlic can ruin the dish.

Add the spinach to the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the spinach wilt for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The spinach will significantly reduce in volume and become tender. If you prefer a finer texture, you can chop it a bit with a knife or blend it with a mixer.

Step 3: Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the milk (or water) until completely dissolved. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This sauce will add creaminess to the dish.

Step 4: Finishing the Dish
Now it's time to add the garlic paste and sour cream (if you choose to use it) to the skillet. Adjust the salt to taste. If you opt for the meat version, prepare the chicken breast on the grill or in the skillet, seasoned with salt and pepper, and add it to the spinach mixture. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Serving the Dish
This dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner. You can serve it alongside toasted bread or with mashed potatoes for a complete meal. A fresh green salad will also complement this dish excellently, adding a touch of freshness.

Tips and Variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for extra color and nutrients. You can also replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Nutritional Benefits
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it ideal for recharging your body after winter.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze it well before use.
2. What are the best spices to flavor this dish? You can use nutmeg, pepper, or even chili flakes for an extra kick.
3. Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days.

I hope this spinach with chicken recipe has inspired you to bring a touch of greenery to your plate. Experiment with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal! Bon appétit!