Spinach dish

Spinach Dish – A Healthy and Flavorful Recipe

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

When it comes to simple and healthy recipes, spinach dishes are at the top of many people's preferences. This recipe is not only quick but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a side dish or even a vegetarian main course. Spinach is a vegetable with a rich history, known for its nutritional benefits, being an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. So let’s get to work and discover how we can turn a few simple ingredients into a delicacy!

Ingredients:
- 3 kg of fresh spinach (about 2 large bunches)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 small can of tomato paste (about 200 g)
- 2 ladles of water (from the water used to blanch the spinach)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (optional, for a thicker consistency)
- Delikat (or another preferred seasoning, to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cleaning and washing the spinach: Start by cleaning the spinach leaves, removing the tougher stems and any wilted leaves. Wash them well under cold running water, making sure to remove all the sand. It is recommended to wash them leaf by leaf to ensure they are perfectly clean.

2. Blanching the spinach: Boil water in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, gradually add the spinach leaves. Blanching should be done in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, to allow the spinach to soften evenly. Leave it in the water for about 3-4 minutes, then remove and let it drain on a towel or a sieve.

3. Chopping the spinach: After the spinach has cooled slightly, chop it finely. This step is important as it will help distribute the flavor evenly when combined with the onions.

4. Preparing the onions: Peel and finely chop the two onions. In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and let it heat up. Add the onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and slightly golden. This step will add depth of flavor to your dish.

5. Adding the spinach: Once the onions are ready, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Add the two ladles of water in which you blanched the spinach, to provide extra moisture and flavor. Season with Delikat or your preferred spices. Let everything simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Optional – thickening the dish: If you prefer a thicker spinach dish, you can dissolve a tablespoon of flour in a little water and add the mixture to the skillet a few minutes before turning off the heat. This step will give a more consistent texture, perfect for serving as a side dish.

7. Serving: The spinach dish can be served hot or cold. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread, but also pairs well with various meat or fish dishes. You can add a touch of freshness by sprinkling feta cheese or parmesan on top before serving.

Useful tips:
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- If you don’t have Delikat on hand, you can use a mix of salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or oregano.
- This recipe is very versatile, and spinach can be combined with other vegetables, such as peas or carrots, to add even more vitamins.

Nutritional benefits:
The spinach dish is an excellent source of nutrients, being rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Consuming spinach can contribute to improved eye health, reduced inflammation, and support bone health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative. Make sure to drain it well before adding it to the recipe.
2. Can the spinach dish be stored? Yes, you can store the spinach dish in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days.
3. What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with garlic, bell peppers, or even cooked chicken to turn the recipe into a more complex dish.

I hope this spinach dish recipe inspires you to try it! It is a wonderful choice for a healthy and delicious meal, full of color and flavors. Enjoy!