Sautéed spinach with garlic

Garlic Spinach: A Green Delight

Who doesn't love a simple yet flavorful dish? Garlic spinach is a classic recipe, rich in nutrients and an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe not only adds a splash of greenery to your plate but also delivers an intense taste that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of fresh spinach
- 2 heads of garlic (preferably fresh garlic)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste or tomato juice (of good quality)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil, as preferred)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Preparing the Spinach:

1. Washing the Spinach: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly in several waters to ensure you remove any impurities or sand. This step is essential for a clean and healthy dish.

2. Blanching the Spinach: Put a pot of water with a teaspoon of salt on the stove. When the water starts to boil, add the spinach and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Blanching helps soften the leaves and preserves the vibrant green color.

3. Draining the Spinach: After blanching, remove the spinach from the water and let it drain well. You can use a sieve or a colander to ensure all the water is removed. Once cooled, chop it finely.

4. Preparing the Garlic: In a large skillet or pot where you will continue cooking, add the oil and sauté the crushed or finely chopped garlic over medium heat. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic becomes bitter. When the garlic turns golden and releases a delightful aroma, it's time to add the spinach.

5. Combining Ingredients: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and mix well. Let it sauté with the garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add a little of the water in which the spinach was boiled to moisten the mixture. This step will help the spinach soften and absorb the flavors.

6. Stewing: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it stew for 5-7 minutes, until the water reduces and the spinach becomes tender.

7. Finishing the Dish: After the water has reduced, add the tomato paste or juice. Mix well and let it cook for another 2 minutes for all the flavors to combine. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

Garlic spinach can be served warm, alongside a piece of fresh bread or as a side dish with meat or fish. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness. Another idea is to serve it as a filling for omelets or pancakes.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Spinach: Select fresh spinach with green, tender leaves. Avoid wilted or spotted leaves.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a more intense flavor than dried. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of garlic.
- Variations: You can add feta cheese or grated parmesan for a richer taste. Additionally, adding toasted nuts on top can provide a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of spinach helps maintain bone health and strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with various herbs, such as dill or parsley, to add another layer of flavor.
- How can I store leftover spinach? You can store sautéed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

This garlic spinach is not just a simple recipe but also an explosion of flavors and nutrients, perfect for any meal. It's an ideal choice for those looking to bring a bit of health and flavor into their diet. Try it and enjoy its delicious taste!