Stewed spinach

Sautéed Spinach - A Green Delicacy for Lent

Who can resist a delicious, creamy, and healthy spinach dish? This sautéed spinach recipe is perfect not only for fasting days but also for anyone looking to add a touch of freshness and vitality to their meals. Spinach, a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, is packed with essential nutrients, being an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and calcium. Moreover, our dish is sure to become a family favorite, especially if served on toasted bread croutons!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 500g fresh spinach (or frozen, but fresh is preferable)
- 6-7 tablespoons of flour
- 2 cups of soy milk (or regular milk if not fasting)
- 1 head of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (preferably balsamic or apple)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and seasoning to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Spinach:
- Start by thoroughly washing the spinach under cold running water to remove any impurities or sand.
- If using fresh spinach, steam it for about 5-7 minutes. This method preserves the nutrients and vibrant color of the spinach. If you don’t have a steamer, you can blanch it in salted water for 3-4 minutes.
- Once the spinach is ready, let it cool, then chop it finely.

2. Preparing the Sauce:
- In a medium pot, add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic becomes bitter.
- Add the flour and mix well for a minute to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually add the soy milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and has a consistency similar to thick sour cream.

3. Combining the Ingredients:
- Once the sauce is ready, add the chopped spinach. Mix well to integrate the spinach into the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt, seasoning, and add the vinegar. The vinegar will add a tangy note that balances the rich flavor of the spinach.

4. Serving:
- Serve the sautéed spinach warm, on toasted bread croutons or as a side dish to various meals. It is also delicious topped with poached eggs, turning it into a complete dish.

Suggestions and Variations
- If you want to add a flavor twist, you can replace the vinegar with fresh lemon juice or add some chopped nuts for extra texture.
- For a heartier dish, you can add feta cheese or parmesan (if not fasting) to enhance the flavor.
- Another delicious variation would be to sprinkle some red pepper or chili flakes on top for a touch of heat.

Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 220 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative. Make sure to fully thaw it before use and drain any excess water.

2. What can I use instead of soy milk?
- Instead of soy milk, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or even cow's milk if it’s not a fasting recipe.

3. Can this recipe be made vegan?
- Absolutely! Use soy milk and avoid cheese or cream to keep the recipe 100% vegan.

Conclusion
Sautéed spinach is a simple, tasty, and healthy dish, perfect for a quick meal or a savory side. Try making it and don’t forget to share the recipe with loved ones! It’s a wonderful way to introduce more vegetables into your daily diet, and its combination of flavors and textures will turn any meal into a true celebration. Enjoy!