Spinach dish

Spinach Dish with Leek and Green Garlic

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

I propose a delicious and nutritious recipe, perfect for adding a touch of freshness and vitality to your meal. This spinach dish with leek and green garlic is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients. Spinach, known for its benefits, is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, while the combination with leek and garlic adds a special flavor.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh green spinach
- 1 leek stalk
- 4 green garlic shoots
- 50 ml milk
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for sautéing

Recipe Story

This simple and quick recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Spinach has been cultivated for thousands of years and has been appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. The combination with leek and green garlic adds an extra layer of flavor and complexity. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside meat, making it a true summer feast.

Step by Step: Preparing the Spinach Dish

1. Preparing the Spinach: Start by washing the spinach well. It is essential to remove any impurities, so I recommend rinsing it in several waters. After cleaning, let it drain.

2. Blanching the Spinach: In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it blanch for 5 minutes. This step helps to preserve the intense green color and nutrients.

3. Draining the Spinach: After 5 minutes, reserve some of the water in which you blanched the spinach, then transfer it to a colander to drain completely. The reserved water can be used to add moisture and flavor to the dish.

4. Preparing the Leek: In the meantime, finely chop the leek stalk. In a pan, heat a little olive oil and add the leek. Sauté it over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Adding the Spinach: Once the leek is sautéed, add the chopped spinach. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved water to enhance the flavor. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finalizing the Dish: When the liquid has evaporated, add the milk and finely chopped garlic. The garlic will add a spicy and aromatic note. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes tender and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Turning off the heat is a moment of joy because your dish is ready! Serve the spinach warm alongside fried eggs, which add a creamy texture and extra protein. This delicious combination will surely become your favorite!

Practical Tips:

- Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh, green spinach without spots or wilted leaves. This will significantly influence the taste and texture of the dish.
- Variations: You can add feta cheese or grated parmesan for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with adding roasted nuts for a crunchy note.
- Pairings: The spinach dish pairs very well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad for a pleasant contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
2. What other herbs can I add? You can experiment with fresh dill or parsley to add an extra flavor.
3. How can I store leftovers? The spinach dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is rich in fiber and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health and strengthening the immune system. Spinach is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to support eye health.

Recommended Pairings:

You can accompany this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a light herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the flavors of your dish.

In conclusion, this spinach dish with leek and green garlic is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a true healthy feast that you can adapt to your taste. Experiment with the ingredients and enjoy every bite!