Spinach dish

Simple sautéed spinach with garlic recipe – a healthy and quick delight

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

Spinach, a green vegetable rich in nutrients, has been valued throughout history for its health benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing significant amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Additionally, it is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, from simple sides to soups and salads. In this recipe, we will prepare a delicious sautéed spinach with garlic and tomato paste, a quick and tasty dish perfect for a light dinner or as a side for various meals.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step by step for perfect sautéed spinach:

1. Preparing the spinach:
Start by washing the spinach very well. It is essential to remove any impurities, so rinse it in several waters until the water runs clear. Remove the tougher stems, leaving only the tender leaves.

2. Blanching the spinach:
Put a large pot of water to boil. When the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it cook for 2 minutes. This process, called blanching, helps retain the vibrant color and nutrients. After two minutes, drain the spinach in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain well.

3. Chopping the spinach:
Once the spinach has drained, coarsely chop it. There is no need to chop it too finely, as larger leaves can add texture to the final dish.

4. Preparing the onion base:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic, but do not let it brown.

5. Adding the spinach:
Now it's time to add the tomato paste. Mix well, then add the chopped spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes for the flavors to combine.

6. Finishing the dish:
In the last minutes of cooking, add the crushed garlic. This will add an intense and savory flavor to the dish. Keep it on the heat for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.

7. Serving:
The sautéed spinach is now ready! You can serve it warm as a side dish with meat, on a slice of toasted bread, or use it as a filling for pies or omelets.

Practical tips:

- Choosing spinach: When buying spinach, look for fresh, green, and firm leaves, free of spots or yellowness. Young spinach is more tender and flavorful.
- Frozen alternative: If you don't have fresh spinach on hand, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Customization: You can also add other ingredients, such as feta cheese or grated parmesan, to enhance the flavor. Additionally, a teaspoon of lemon juice added at the end can provide a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

Spinach is a vegetable rich in essential nutrients. A serving of 100 grams of cooked spinach has about 23 calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It also contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body and contribute to eye and skin health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can spinach be prepared in advance? Yes, sautéed spinach can be prepared a few hours ahead, and the flavor will be even more intense once the flavors have had time to meld.
- What are the best combinations with sautéed spinach? Spinach pairs excellently with chicken or fish, but it can also be served alongside rice or pasta for a vegetarian lunch.

Serving suggestions:

For a simple and quick lunch, serve sautéed spinach with a portion of white or brown rice, adding a few slices of lemon for extra freshness. If you're looking for a light appetizer, you can use spinach as a filling for mini tarts or bruschetta with goat cheese.

This sautéed spinach with garlic recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and health. I encourage you to try it and adapt it to your personal tastes. Enjoy your meal!