Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed Spinach – a simple, delicious, and nutrient-rich side dish

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

Who doesn’t love a quick side dish that adds a splash of color and health to the plate? Sautéed spinach is a perfect choice, not only for its wonderful flavor but also for the nutritional benefits it offers. This recipe is extremely simple, yet the result is always impressive.

A bit of history

Spinach is a plant with a long history, used in kitchens around the world for centuries. It is known for its rich content of vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Additionally, spinach is valued for its antioxidant properties, making it a reliable ally in maintaining health. When sautéed, spinach becomes a savory side that pairs perfectly with various dishes.

Ingredients

For 4 servings, you will need:
- 500 g fresh or frozen spinach
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 small chili pepper (optional, depending on preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil or other vegetable oil (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the spinach: If using fresh spinach, start by removing any wilted or yellow leaves. Rinse the spinach well in several waters to remove dirt and any impurities. If opting for frozen spinach, ensure it is thawed beforehand and drained of excess water.

2. Chopping the ingredients: Peel the 2 cloves of garlic and slice them thinly. Chop the chili pepper into small pieces, making sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder side dish.

3. Heating the oil: In a skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use another type of vegetable oil according to your preferences.

4. Sautéing the garlic and chili: When the oil is hot, add the garlic slices and chili pieces. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns slightly golden, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic has a bitter taste.

5. Adding the spinach: Now it’s time to add the spinach to the skillet. If using fresh spinach, it will take up a lot of space but will significantly reduce as it cooks. Add a tablespoon or two of water to aid in the cooking process.

6. Cooking the spinach: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the spinach wilt over low heat for about 5 minutes. Check occasionally and stir to ensure even cooking.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the spinach has wilted, remove the lid and continue cooking, stirring frequently, to sauté the spinach a bit and concentrate its flavors. Add salt to taste.

8. Serving: Once the spinach is ready, remove it from the skillet and serve it warm alongside your desired main dish. This side pairs perfectly with grilled meat, fish, or even vegetarian dishes.

Practical tips

- Frozen spinach option: If opting for frozen spinach, make sure it is well-thawed and drained before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery side.

- Experiment with flavors: You can add other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish, such as a teaspoon of lemon juice for a fresh touch or chili flakes for a spicier taste.

- Delicious combinations: Sautéed spinach can be paired with various dishes, such as vegetable rice, pasta, or baked potatoes. You can also include it in omelets or frittatas for a healthy and filling breakfast.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned spinach?
It is preferable to use fresh or frozen spinach, but if you have canned spinach, make sure to drain it well before cooking.

2. How can I store cooked spinach?
Cooked spinach can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in a skillet or oven, but be careful not to overheat it to avoid altering its texture.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of spinach?
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium. It is low in calories, making it a perfect choice for a healthy diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This sautéed spinach recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to add a touch of health and flavor to your meals. Enjoy!