Spinach dish

Spinach with onions and garlic is a simple and tasty dish that not only brings flavor to our table but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Spinach, a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. In this recipe, we will transform the basic ingredients into a delicacy that can be enjoyed both as a main dish and as a side.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 kg fresh spinach (or frozen, but fresh is preferred to benefit from all the nutrients)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 head of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
- 1 cup (approximately 250 ml) of milk

Recipe preparation:

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by washing the spinach. Place it under a stream of cold water and rinse well to remove impurities. Cut off the spinach stems, as they can be fibrous and tough. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is completely thawed and excess water is drained.

2. Blanching the spinach: In a large pot, add enough water to cover the spinach, along with a pinch of salt and spices to taste (a bit of nutmeg, pepper, or even a bay leaf for flavor). Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spinach and let it cook for 3-5 minutes. This process will soften the leaves and enhance the vibrant green color.

3. Draining the spinach: After 3-5 minutes, drain the spinach in a colander. It is important to remove as much water as possible, as excess water could make the dish too watery. Once drained, you can chop the spinach with a knife or puree it with a blender for a finer texture.

4. Sautéing the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Add them to the pot and sauté until golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes. This will add a delicious aroma and rich flavor to your dish.

5. Adding the spinach: Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the chopped spinach to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Then, add the liquid in which you blanched the spinach to enhance the flavor.

6. Incorporating the flour: In a small bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of flour with the milk to form a smooth paste, avoiding lumps. Add this mixture to the spinach and stir well. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dish thickens and you achieve the desired consistency.

7. Adjusting the salt: Finally, taste the dish and adjust the salt if necessary. You can also add a bit of pepper or even a hint of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want a vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the milk with almond or soy milk, and the olive oil is already a suitable choice.
- Spinach can be served warm or cold. It makes a perfect accompaniment to grilled meat or fish, but can also be enjoyed on its own with a slice of fresh bread.
- This recipe is very versatile. You can add feta cheese or parmesan for a more intense flavor, or you can incorporate other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a heartier consistency.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and calcium. It is rich in antioxidants and contributes to good eye health, a strong immune system, and maintaining healthy skin.

Pairings and serving suggestions:
Spinach goes perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Of course! Just make sure it is thawed and well-drained before adding it to the recipe.

2. Can I add extra spices?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various spices like cumin, coriander, or even chili pepper, depending on your preferences.

3. How long can the spinach dish be stored?
The spinach dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Try this simple spinach recipe and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal! You will definitely want to include it in your weekly menu. Enjoy!