Spinach sauté with mushrooms and garlic

Spinach Sauté with Mushrooms and Garlic

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe, look no further! The spinach sauté with mushrooms and garlic is not only a delicious dish but also an excellent nutritional choice. This vibrant dish combines the delicate flavors of mushrooms with the richness and freshness of spinach in a simple and appealing way. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this recipe will bring a splash of color and health to your plate.

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

Recipe History
Sautéing is a cooking technique that has been used for centuries, popularized for its speed and efficiency. It involves cooking food in small amounts of oil or butter at high temperatures, allowing flavors and textures to be preserved. Spinach, a versatile ingredient, has been appreciated throughout history for its nutritional benefits, being high in vitamins and minerals. Mushrooms, on the other hand, add an umami note and an appealing appearance to the dish.

Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 300 g mushrooms (I recommend a mix of mushrooms, such as button and shiitake, for a rich flavor)
- 400 g fresh spinach (make sure it is clean and fresh)
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- a splash of lemon juice (optional, for an extra freshness)

Preparation Instructions
1. Preparing the ingredients: Wash the spinach well under cold running water, ensuring that you remove any impurities. If you are using fresh mushrooms, wipe them with a damp cloth and slice them thinly. It's important not to wash them with water, as mushrooms absorb excess moisture, which can affect their texture when cooked.

2. Boiling the spinach: In a pot, bring water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it boil for about 3 minutes. This step will help soften the spinach and retain its vibrant color. After 3 minutes, drain the spinach well, ensuring that no excess water remains.

3. Sautéing the mushrooms and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden, being careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can become bitter.

4. Adding the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until they release their water and become slightly browned. This allows the flavors to concentrate.

5. Incorporating the spinach: Once the mushrooms are ready, add the drained spinach to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and leave on the heat for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, add a few drops of lemon juice for extra freshness.

6. Serving: Serve this spinach sauté with mushrooms and garlic immediately, alongside baked potatoes or roasted chicken. This dish also pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Practical Tips
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms for a different flavor. Portobello mushrooms offer a meatier texture, while shiitake mushrooms bring an exotic note.
- If you have frozen spinach, you can use it, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
- Substitute garlic with sautéed onion for a sweeter and milder version.

Nutritional Benefits
Spinach is a superfood, rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help maintain optimal health. Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein and B vitamins, providing a healthy nutrient intake. This recipe is not only a delicious option but also one that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good choice, but make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the recipe.

2. Is it necessary to boil the spinach?
Boiling the spinach helps preserve its color and texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a fresher taste.

3. What other sides go well with this dish?
This sauté pairs excellently with rice, quinoa, or even whole-grain pasta. You can also add a serving of protein, such as fish or tofu, for a complete main dish.

In conclusion, the spinach sauté with mushrooms and garlic is an easy-to-make recipe that combines enticing flavors and nutritional benefits, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this quick and simple recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!