Spinach dish

Spinach with cherry tomatoes – a recipe full of freshness and vitality

Spring brings with it a wealth of fresh greens that delight our senses and invite us to experiment in the kitchen. During this time, when markets are full of vegetables and aromatic herbs, we cannot help but be drawn to the green leaves of spinach, which offer both a pleasant texture and a multitude of nutritional benefits. Today, I invite you to discover a simple and delicious recipe for spinach with cherry tomatoes, perfect for fasting days or for a light and healthy lunch.

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

Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 4-5 green onions
- 2-3 green garlic stalks
- 8 cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon

A brief history of spinach

Spinach, an ingredient revered for thousands of years, was originally cultivated in Asia. Over time, it gained popularity worldwide, being appreciated not only for its subtle taste but also for its rich nutrient content. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, iron, and antioxidants, providing important nutritional input in a balanced diet. Therefore, this spinach dish recipe is not only tasty but also beneficial for our health.

Preparing the recipe – simple and efficient steps

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the spinach well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. It is important to choose fresh spinach with green, crunchy leaves, as this will add a more intense flavor to your dish. After washing, remove the thicker stems of the leaves and let them drain.

Step 2: The onion and garlic

In a deep skillet or cooking pot, add the two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and place it over medium heat. Meanwhile, clean and slice the green onions into thin rings, and the green garlic into small pieces. When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. This step will bring the flavors to the forefront.

Step 3: Blanching the spinach

If you prefer to avoid wilting the spinach, you can blanch it before adding it to the skillet. Boil water in a pot and add the spinach for 1-2 minutes. Then, drain it and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This technique helps maintain the vibrant color and pleasant texture.

Step 4: Cooking the spinach

After the onion and garlic are cooked, add the spinach to the skillet along with a little water, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let it steam for about 5 minutes. The spinach will reduce significantly, so do not worry if it seems like you have added too much.

Step 5: Adding the cherry tomatoes

Once the spinach is cooked, cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the skillet. They will bring a note of sweetness and acidity, perfectly balancing the flavor of the dish. Let them cook together with the spinach for another 3-4 minutes. Cover the pot again to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish

Before turning off the heat, squeeze the juice of 1/2 lemon over the dish. This will add a fresh taste and enhance the flavor of the spinach and tomatoes. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding salt or pepper as desired.

Serving

The spinach with cherry tomatoes is delicious served warm, alongside slices of toasted bread. The toasted bread will absorb some of the dish's juices, adding a pleasant crunchy texture. You can also add a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Variations and suggestions

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand. You can add crumbled feta cheese for a salty flavor or include other vegetables, such as zucchini or grated carrots, for an extra vitamin boost. You can also turn this dish into a main course by adding pasta or boiled rice.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this spinach dish contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and additional ingredients. Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. It is a filling food but low in calories, perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but it is recommended to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.

2. What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
In addition to cherry tomatoes, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms to diversify the flavors.

3. How can I store the spinach dish for the next day?
The spinach dish keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A fresh salad and a glass of lemon water or a fragrant green tea are excellent options to complement the meal.

I encourage you to try this easy and quick recipe for spinach with cherry tomatoes. It is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of flavors that will bring spring to your plate. Enjoy!